What a great two days! Sixteen new Solo/Lead/Staff pastors from across the district were together this week for New Pastor Orientation. Five were solo/lead pastors and the remaining eleven were staff pastors. We toured Caton’s, stayed at Beulah and, in addition to a myriad of Atlantic details, shared together concerning trust, truth, tenacity, teamwork and the high privilege we have of serving together for the sake of the Cause. Jedie Elliott shared a devotional and Brent Ingersoll was a special guest. Peter and I were honoured to interface with such quality servants of the God most high. Onward and upward!

I was pleased to be in Buctouche yesterday morning where I spoke at the Irving Chapel and Mark and Sherry Gorveatte led worship. It is always a privilege to be at the chapel for a service each year. 

Nackawic had a baptism yesterday – in the Saint John River no less.

Congrats to Mike and Kate Agrell on the safe arrival of their daughter Julia. She made her debut on Fredericton last week and mum, dad and daughter are all doing well. To quote Mike “Julia is one pretty little ball of wrinkles.”

Nick Graham continues to battle health issues and is presently hospitalized in Fredericton. Peter and I visited him there on Saturday and we continue to pray for him, Beth and the girls. We also were present for a board meeting at Maple Ridge that morning and heard very encouraging reports on the life of the church and their strong support for both Pastors Nick and Mike. There were 35 youth present for the first youth meeting of the fall held last week.

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Del Heiney, Youth Pastor at KV, as our new District Youth President. Appreciation is expressed to Scott Rhyno who has been serving in this capacity and we look forward with keen anticipation to the youth work on the district under Del’s leadership. 

A major repair job is underway on the Beulah wharf with the replacement of the several piers on the wharf.  Built in 1934 and 1935, the piers were badly deteriorated and posed a safety issue and as well as having become quite unattractive. The project should be completed this month.

As mentioned last week, KV held their revivekv2014 last weekend. Their total attendance for the weekend was circa 1700 and they baptized 19 in the evening service in Kings Square – PTL!

Yesterday was Vision Sunday at Crosspoint; Launch Day at Truro and a packed house day at Kentville New Hope - as the fall growth season moves into full swing.  Onward and upward. 

There are great short-term mission trip opportunities available over the next few months. Check this link for details. Short-term mission trips change your worldview and should be a part of every believers experience. Check it out.

THOT: “Once in 7 years I burn all of my sermons. It is a shame if I cannot write better sermons than 7 years ago.” – John Wesley

ON SECOND THOT: “God grant that I may never live to be useless.” – John Wesley

NB/ME Children’s Ministry Huddle at Presque Isle Wesleyan on Sept 20 from 9 AM-3PM. Cost is $25 per person or $99 for for 4 or more per church. This includes breakouts, networking and lunch together.

One-day affordable event for your children’s ministry team. Sunday School teachers, nursery workers, VBS helpers, children’s church workers and volunteers experience the excitement and energy of discovering practical, new ideas you can use NOW from a team of passionate and dedicated workers. 

Get ready for a time of growth, renewal and fun.

Register your team today – contact linda.lamos@kingsvalley.ca

Kingswood is gearing up for their fourth annual ENGAGE conference on October 24-25. Designed for pastors, worship leaders, and anyone involved in planning or implementing the weekend worship gathering in the local church, teams that attend find this event to be an inspiring Fall experience.

Visit www.kingswood.edu/engage for information about seminars, keynotes and registration. Take advantage of early bird pricing until September 15th!

John Maxwell was in Moncton last week for a morning session with more than 6000 high school students that was held in the Coliseum. In the afternoon, along with Olympic gold medalist Heather Moyse from PEI, he spoke to a nearly full house at the Moncton church. Several members of our tribe were present for a quintessential Maxwell presentation. The afternoon audience was a real community cross section that included people from the business, government, media, industry, educational and religious sectors. The Premier was also present and brought greetings. There was a brief back stage type opportunity following the session that was exclusively focused toward the ministers and church leaders present. Peter and I were both present and glad for the opportunity to rub shoulders with several of you.

AJ Thomas presented his plan for the relaunch of Bangor Pathway to the LBA there last week. The plan is comprehensive and, while still in draft stage, is focused on the outcome of a healthy, growing, sustainable community of faith with Great Commission impact. The LBA approved the plan – Onward and Upward!

Fort Fairfield held a Game Plan Sunday with 40 in attendance – 18 months ago they were on the verge of closure. Pastor Jamin Melanson presented a “Game Plan” and there was a significant time of anointing and prayer in the service. 

Yarmouth had 440 in attendance – up 50 from last year – as they reintroduced a second service.

Fredericton Journey also reintroduced a second Sunday service but in the evening rather than the more common model of multi services in the morning. The combined attendance for the day was 548. 

Fredericton Corbett and Crosspoint held a combined youth launch service with 85 students in attendance.

Peter was at Nackawic yesterday morning for their annual “well walk” service. The impact of Nackawic on African villages were they have helped drill several years across the last decade has given them positive Kingdom impact out of proportion to their size – well done!

KV had 101 middle schoolers show up for laser tag night on Friday night. On Saturday they held a Community Freecycle at Exhibition Park complete with BBQ, face painting, bouncy rides, etc and where all items were offered free to the general public. Onward and upward.

Time is slipping by. Kathy Shanks, our District Coach for Bible Bowl would love to hear from you. She is hoping ot have two teams in our district studying the book of Acts. Grades 6-8 qualify. Please contact Kathy straight away if interested – 1-506-238-1346.

Bangor River City and a number of other local churches along with the city were a part of A Day of Hope on Saturday that saw some 6000 people attend. The Day offered free groceries, winter coats, haircuts, manicures, help with resume writing, live music and health and dental screening. Great example of partnering with churches and the city to touch the community. 

Sackville Crossroads baptized two people yesterday in spite of the rain and then capped the day with a fellowship meal. New life!

Carey Nieuwhof’s 5 Ways to Make Criticism Sting Less

1. Don’t Respond for 24 Hours.  Just Don’t.
2. Ask yourself: Is there any truth in this?
3. Own What You Can.
4. Reply Relationally.
5. Discard the Crud

THOT: “Our anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strengths.” – Charles H. Spurgeon

ON SECOND THOT: “By perseverance the ant reached the ark.” – Charles H. Spurgeon

THIRD AND FINALLY: “Every Christian is either a missionary or an impostor.”  – Charles H. Spurgeon

Kingswood is gearing up for their fourth annual ENGAGE conference on October 24-25. Designed for pastors, worship leaders, and anyone involved in planning or implementing the weekend worship gathering in the local church, teams that attend find this event to be an inspiring Fall experience.

Visit www.kingswood.edu/engage for information about seminars, keynotes and registration. Take advantage of early bird pricing until September 15th!

Kingswood University held an outdoor chapel service last week on a beautiful early fall day. Autumn in the Maritimes is top class. Not to be missed. Not to be taken for granted. Enjoy His handiwork.

Sympathy is extended to:

Raymond Fancy, Pastor at Amherst,  on the death of his father last week. The funeral was held in Liverpool yesterday. Peter was present to represent our district.

Warren Burbury on the death of his wife Ingerlin who passed away last Sunday in Colorado. Our sympathy is extended to the entire family.  I appreciate Bill Burbury calling me with this word.

Our New Hope church in Kentville held a ladies retreat with the theme Diamonds and Roses this past weekend. Well done New Hope. 

Onward and Upward:

Brown Bag Lunch at Amherst.

Set A Fire weekend held at Corbett Ave with Brent Ingersoll, Scott Rhyno and Pastor AJ. 

L D Buckingham led a weekend healthy church ministry focus with Pastor Jason Coffman at Easton including a pastoral consultation, LBA meeting and Sunday preaching. 

Kings Valley is set to launch a Saturday evening service this week which will make their fourth weekend service.

Houlton held weekend youth blitz at Living Waters Bible Camp with staff assistance from Kingswood. Nearly 90 were present for this event under the leadership of Pastor Dave Rowe. 

220+ were present yesterday for the double celebration at Dartmouth Hillside – the 40th anniversary of the planting of the church – now Hillside Wesleyan Ritcey Campus – and the dedication of their recently-acquired second campus – Hillside Wesleyan Parkway Campus. Optimism and energy everywhere present. Beginning next Sunday, there will be a service in both locations. Both Peter and I pastored there back in the day and were honoured to be present for the celebration. Congrats to Lead Pastor Jay Guptill and his crew.

Doug Spearman was declared Employee of the Month at Long Creek Youth Development Center in Portland. This is the first time a Chaplain has every received this award.  Congrats Doug.

UTR – Upon This Rock – will very soon have an item on The Wesleyan Church website. We all have opportunity to read an early release of this item. Peter will be leading a Vision Tour to Newfoundland later this month as UTR continues to move forward – 3 new churches in 5 years.  

On a personal note: Gloria has been hospitalized since Tuesday evening due to debilitating, unrelenting pain in her lower back. An MRI has revealed a disc issue and she will be seen by an orthopaedic surgeon on Monday. Prayer is requested. 

THOT: “More people ask the Lord to lighten their burden than ask Him to strengthen their back.” – Quote from first service at Hillside, Sept 8, 1974.

ON SECOND THOT: “There is a wide open door for a great work here.” – Apostle Paul 

October 3-4 for students in grade 8-12. Details on the Kingswood website.

Kingswood is gearing up for their fourth annual ENGAGE conference on October 24-25. Designed for pastors, worship leaders, and anyone involved in planning or implementing the weekend worship gathering in the local church, teams that attend find this event to be an inspiring Fall experience.

Visit www.kingswood.edu/engage for information about seminars, keynotes and registration. Take advantage of early bird pricing until September 15th!

Today is Canadian Thanksgiving and there is much for which to give thanks. The district office is closed today for the holiday and will reopen tomorrow – Tuesday. Happy Thanksgiving! Our American friends  – you will have your opportunity in just a few weeks. 

October is Pastor Appreciation month.  I know that many churches have already expressed appreciation in a variety of ways. Just a reminder that if your church has not done so as yet, this is a great opportunity to let your pastor know that he/she is loved and the ministry provided is truly appreciated. 

Pastors Rod Guptill, Gary Churchill  and Bill Lea along within the crew above are in Cuba on a short term missions trip.  We are so honoured to partner with the growing work in Cuba and our prayers are with the team.  Have you signed up for a short term mission trip this year?  If not, visit www.GPAtlantic.ca and click on Short Team Trips – this may be your time.

Leota Stairs, wife of Rev. Arnold Stairs passed away last week and her funeral was held on Friday.  I was honoured to bring brief remarks on behalf of our district and to gratefully acknowledge her life time of service to the Master.  Our sympathy is expressed again to Arnold, Reid, Nadine, their spouses and families. 

Would you trust your kids to this trio?  I certainly would! Excellent planning session for the growing ministry of Caton’s Island was held last week. Caton’s has expanding influence for the Cause and I thank God for these three – Ben Canney, Dean Stephenson and Peter Moore who are planning, praying and preparing for the continued  growth and spiritual impact of Caton’s. 

I met with the LBA at Bangor River City last week to respond to their application for consideration as a Maximizing Impact (MI) church. The meeting went very well and our consultation team will be there for a weekend in November. Our two MI churches for this fall are Truro Central Nova and Bangor River City. There are other applications on file and two of those will be selected for the spring of 2015.

On the trip to River City, I also had opportunity to briefly visit with AJ and Kelly Thomas and their boys, to see the home where they are living and take AJ to dinner; share breakfast with Matt Maxwell; meet with Nancy Nason-Clark (more word later) and have lunch with Mark Brewer. It is always great to be out and about with the tribe. 

Gloria continues her stay in the hospital and the above sign is about 2 meters from her bed. No, she has not been renamed Rachael – but due to space management issues, she is in the obstetrics unit. Thanks for your cards, contacts and prayers during these days. 

I attended church in Moncton yesterday. Very timely and on point word from Pastor Mike Tapper, who joined the staff there this summer.  Great to have the Tappers back on our district. 

Fredericton Journey held a Men Gone Wild event last weekend with some 75 men in attendance. They were challenged by a special guest who is an outdoors expert; took part in outdoor activities and of course, enjoyed some wild meat. 

Zone Ministers Meetings coming up in a few weeks – pastors/staff pastors attendance expected – other ministers welcome. More detail by email. 

• Monday, Nov 3 – Woodstock
• Tuesday, Nov 4 – Sussex
• Thursday, Nov 6 – Halifax Deep Water North St location
• Friday, Nov 7 – Brazil Lake

One of us was unpacking stuff in the office and one was going to a funeral….Truly blessed to have Peter as an integral part of our district leadership team.

A good read this week:

The seven warnings on social media usage:

1. Consider anything you say on social media to be permanent.
2. You can be misunderstood often on social media.
3. Emoticons are not sufficient to soften what you have posted.
4. Attacks on other people’s character or positions are considered cowardly by many.
5. Too many Christian leaders are posting on social media in the heat of emotional moments.
6. Churches and other Christian organizations are checking social media of Christian leaders.
7. The non-Christian world is watching Christians attack each other on social media.

THOT: “We are told to let our light shine, and if it does, we won’t need to tell anybody it does. Lighthouses don’t fire cannons to call attention to their shining- they just shine.” – Dwight L Moody

ON SECOND THOT: “I have had more trouble with myself than with any other man.” – Dwight L Moody

Kingswood is gearing up for their fourth annual ENGAGE conference on October 24-25. Designed for pastors, worship leaders, and anyone involved in planning or implementing the weekend worship gathering in the local church, teams that attend find this event to be an inspiring Fall experience.

Visit www.kingswood.edu/engage for information about seminars, keynotes and registration. Take advantage of early bird pricing until September 15th!

President Mark Gorveatte resigned at the Board of Trustees meeting last week with an effective date of June 30, 2015.  A Search Committee has been established and prayers are sincerely requested for the Gorveatte’s as they seek the Master’s will for their next ministry season and for Kingswood as a new leader is selected. President Gorveatte has served with passion and Kingdom focus and will leave the institution better than he found it – a reality that should define every leader. 

Dave Rowe, staff pastor at Houlton, underwent surgery last week for a blown achilles tendon.  The surgery was successful and a long recuperation period is before him. 

Truro Central Nova raised $1135 last week for the Ebola crisis. Well done.

September set a new record for the total number of viewers to It’s Monday Again. It is great that we are staying connected – it is a proven community builder.

Four young men from Kingswood were at Nackawic yesterday, including a student from there, and represented the university very effectively. 

The Upon This Rock vision team experienced a well-planned tour of the rapid expansion in the greater St. John’s area.  The harvest is plentiful in communities such as Paradise and Southlands.  The District approved vision of Stuart Marples and Solid Rock Wesleyan to launch three new satellite locations in the next five years is perfectly timed as a season of explosive growth continues in the areas surrounding Mount Pearl. The team interacted with the Satellite Team of Solid Rock and enjoyed a powerful time of prayer in the Southlands Community Centre (a possible site) with several of the core leaders of the church.  The opportunity to reach lost people and regain lost ground for the church on The Rock has never been greater.

The sign that is being held above Graham Perry’s head in the pic says that their dream is to be in It’s Monday Again :).

There was a District Board of Ministerial Development (DBMD) leader training day held at Kingswood last week and hosted by HQ staff. Our district was represented by Dale MacDonald, DBMD Chair and Greg Hansen, DBMD Secretary. 

Mandate – the mens event at Crosspoint – was held over the weekend. Great reports – more than 80 men in attendance – and a date already set for October 16-17 next year. It is great to see the strong focus on men’s ministry in a number of our churches this fall. Onward and upward. 

Fort Fairfield received three new members yesterday and baptized seven – amazing. Attendance more than doubled from a year ago. PTL. 

Gloria was discharged from hospital lastThursday. There is much ground to be gained and significant treatment decisions still to be made. Thanks for your ongoing prayers and concern.  

October – Pastor Appreciation Month – a reminder if needed.

November – Family Violence Awareness Month – resource emails coming to pastors.

Zone Ministers Meetings coming up in a few weeks – pastors/staff pastors attendance expected – other ministers welcome. More detail by email. 

• Monday, Nov 3 – Woodstock
• Tuesday, Nov 4 – Sussex
• Thursday, Nov 6 – Halifax Deep Water North St location
• Friday, Nov 7 – Brazil Lake

THOT: “Life is too short to worry about stupid things. Pray. Trust God. Enjoy life. Don’t let the little things get you down.” – Nicky Gumble

ON SECOND THOT: “God used the megachurch to reach Korea and the house church to reach China. Models should be held loosely and Christ held tightly.” – Ed Stetzer

Kingswood is gearing up for their fourth annual ENGAGE conference on October 24-25. Designed for pastors, worship leaders, and anyone involved in planning or implementing the weekend worship gathering in the local church, teams that attend find this event to be an inspiring Fall experience.

Visit www.kingswood.edu/engage for information about seminars, keynotes and registration. Take advantage of early bird pricing until September 15th!

We were all saddened this week by the cowardly murder of two Canadian soldiers – one run down with a car and the other shot while standing post at the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier.  And then there was the hatchet attack on the four NYPD officers. All of these events would have long seemed impossible. As the world changes at a startling pace, I am greatly heartened by the rock-solid truth that we serve a Master who is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.  

I am pleased to announce that the 2014 District Journal is now posted on our district website. Due to changes in our DBMD and Camp Board structures and personnel, it has taken a bit longer to complete the Journal – thanks for your patience. The silhouette picture of Gannet Rock is as Atlantic as it gets! Picture was taken by my son Troy when we had opportunity to visit Gannet together this summer courtesy of Capt. Peter Wilcox. 

Ken Banks will be leading a missions trip to Nicaragua in February.  This is a church construction team and there is room for a few more people to sign up. If you or someone you know is interested in further info, please contact Ken at pastor93@ns.sympatico.ca. He needs to hear from you soon due to air travel reservation time lines. This is one of the GP Atlantic trips for this church year. 

The Seal Cove church has recently designated former pastor Gene Hudson as Pastor Emeritus. He presently serves the church through seniors visitation. Congratulations Gene. 

Fredericton Crosspoint had 75 kids at CP_Kids last Tuesday – onward and upward.

Grand Harbour Central had 24 youth present last week up from 6 a year ago. New youth pastor Caleb Richardson is “gettin it done” – congrats.

I was honoured to be at Deep Water over the weekend for the installation of Jon Stephens as Lead Pastor. The installation was conducted at both the Saturday evening gathering at North Street and Sunday at Park Lane.  Great joy to welcome Jon and Erin.

Presque Isle recently held a Christmas with a Purpose sale of items produced by indigents and people escaping bondage and raised over $7000. The money goes back to the country of origin to aid those who produced the items. Well done.

Jasper Rideout has been placed on a 60 day leave-of-absence through the remainder of 2014. 

This unanimous action of the LBA was taken last week in a meeting where I was present. This is being done so that serious matters of a personal nature may be addressed. Thanks to Charles Bain, Bruce Cheney, Perry and David Ingersoll who have agreed to supply the pulpit at North Head through the end of December. 

Peter and I also met with the LBA at Ingomar yesterday as we continue to work on pastoral recruitment for the church there. I am optimistic that we will have an satisfactory resolution to the matter very soon. 

THOT: “There is the tendency to place ourselves and our ambitions at the centre of our lives. This is very human, but it is not Christian.” – Pope Francis

ON SECOND THOUGHT: ‘Christians are not so much in danger when they are persecuted as when they are admired.” – Charles H. Spurgeon

Attention!

Zone Meeting in Woodstock scheduled for today is postponed due to snow storm and power outage. Redo date will be announced soon.

Zone Ministers Meetings this week – 11 AM to 2 PM with on-site lunch included.

• Monday – Woodstock Wesleyan
• Tuesday – Sussex Wesleyan
• Thursday – Halifax Deep Water North St Campus
• Friday – Brazil Lake Wesleyan

Kings Valley launched KVEast, our first multi-site location, one year ago. The picture above is the KVEast group on the first anniversary. Onward and upward!

Brad and Tracy Eisan will be candidating at Ingomar next weekend. They are presently serving bi-vocationally at Crossroads in Lower Sackville. 

Fredericton Journey had 194 present for a fall Harvest Party and 90 present for a Tuesday morning Parent Playgroup. 

Don Trimper, father of Tanya Brown, pastor’s wife at Grand Harbour Central, passed away a few days ago.. His funeral was held in Digby yesterday. Don was a wonderful example of a fully devoted follower of Christ. 

Peter and I were at Deep Water last weekend for Pastor Jon’s installation. So were these guys.  This is NOT us……..

Fredericton Crosspoint is in a CP House Rules series. There are new faces, salvations and last week, standing room only in their second service. 

Moncton has been seeing people come to Christ on a regular basis this fall – three last Sunday.  This is at the core. Their youth group PRYME had a super group of students present for an overnighter on Halloween night. 

Houlton had a recent movie night and screened the God’s Not Dead movie.  Very good crowd present for this community connection event.

Thanks to all the churches that remembered and observed Pastor Appreciation Month in October. Your kindness and support is deeply appreciated.

November is Family Violence Awareness Month. In cooperation with Dr. Nancy-Nason Clark, pastors will be receiving daily items on family violence by email from our office. This is a needed emphasis in our culture. 

Several of our churches held a Trunk or Treat night at Halloween as a community outreach event. Kings Valley, Maple Ridge, Truro, Fredericton Crosspoint, Houlton and perhaps others were involved. In addition to treats being handed out, family photos were taken, Bibles given away, games played, new contacts made and community connections established or broadened. The total number touched in this way was at least 2000.  Onward and upward!

THOT: “If you have no opposition in the place you serve, you’re serving in the wrong place.” – G. Campbell Morgan

ON SECOND THOT: “We who preach the Word are not there to impress; we are there to communicate the life-giving message of the gospel.” – Thom Rainer

Remembrance Day and Veterans Day will be observed this week and we will all take a reflective moment to remember and honour those who served and especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. If you see or know a veteran, please say thank you. As Churchill so poignantly put it “…..never have so many owed so much to so few.” 

The district office will be closed tomorrow – Tuesday – in honour of Remembrance/Veterans Day. Open again on Wednesday. 

The zone ministers’ meeting scheduled for Woodstock last week was snowed out – in early November no less.  The meeting has been rescheduled for Wednesday of this week at the Woodstock church beginning at 11 AM. Looking forward to a great few hours together.

Speaking of zone ministers’ meetings – we held three last week in Sussex, Halifax and Yarmouth. There were just under 100 present with one large meeting still to come this week. Excellent turn out of nearly 100% of local church appointed ministers; invigorating interaction as we grappled with real world issues of ministering in century 21; building of tribal spirit; what next discussions; network expansion; a few commercials and good pizza. Peter and I are honoured to serve such an incredible tribe – onward and upward!

November is Family Violence Awareness Month. We are all encouraged to celebrate healthy families and raise our awareness of families in need of support and resourcing. Pastors – check your inbox.

Billy Graham turned 96 last week.  What an incredible model of a life well lived and of a leader whose integrity and moral behaviour were never compromised.

Nearly 100 young ladies were a part of a Princess Tea Party at Corbett Ave on Saturday – a great children’s ministry event! The awesome lads above were the waiters for the Tea Party – go guys!

Jay and Sharon Guptill are presently in Honduras on an “exposure tour” with Compassion to view that very effective ministry first hand. 

Brad and Tracey Eisan candidated at Ingomar over the weekend. The church will vote tomorrow night – full report next week. 

Moncton had a baptism in both services yesterday morning – onward and upward!

Peter was in Sydney over the weekend to visit with the Myers  and New Roots. Pictured above are two people recently baptized by Pastor Kevin. Thanks to all of you who have been praying for and supporting the church plant at Sydney.

THOT: “At the threshold of the new day stands the Lord who made it.” – Dietrich Bonhoeffer

ON SECOND THOT: “You now, if we didn’t stick together, we would be very lost indeed.” – Winnie the Pooh

We had our first snowfall of the season last week – earlier than our normal pattern. The lawn care people showed up the same day….only in Canada. My condolences to those who live in predictable environments:).

Brad Eisan was unanimously elected as the new pastor at Faith Wesleyan in Ingomar in a congregational meeting on Monday evening.  He and his wife Tracey will assume the pastoral responsibilities there on the first Sunday of December. Congrats to Brad.

Jason Vienneau, staff pastor at Cornerstone, resigned yesterday effective in 2015.

Miramichi hosted the Nelson Remembrance Service on the 11th. There were 185 present for this excellent community connection event that honoured those who served and sacrificed in defence of our freedoms. 

Our fourth and final zone ministers meeting of this cycle was held in Woodstock last Wednesday, There were 130+ in total attendance at the meetings – a truly excellent response. I deeply appreciate the strong attendance; the energizing interaction; the high level cooperation of our host pastors and the very positive feedback. What a classy tribe!

Highest # of opens ever for IMA last week.

Fredericton Journey was honoured to baptize a military couple on Remembrance Day Sunday – an event loaded with symbolism – all good.

Head of Millstream held an anniversary celebration last Sunday with former pastor Peter Hayes as special speaker. Their attendance of 62 was nearly 300% of last year’s average. 

Last Sunday at Woods Harbour Rod Guptill dedicated David and Amy Hockley’s new baby Isaiah Frederick Douglas Hockley who was born on Oct 28th. The church also highlighted Civic Service Sunday and had some 25 visitors present. 

I will be in Atlanta early in the week for meetings of the General Board and the first meeting of the Membership Working Group. On the weened, the Maximizing Impact Team  – Moore, Buckingham, Plaizier and yours truly – will be at  Bangor River City – more word next week. 

With a heavy heart and deep regret I must report that Greg Dakin, Lead Pastor at Saint John First (SJ1) surrendered his ministerial credentials and was removed from his position on Tuesday of last week. I met with the LBA that evening and Seth Fancy was appointed as Interim Lead Pastor with immediate effect. I was at the church yesterday morning to speak with the congregation after which Seth spoke words of comfort and encouragement. We then shared in a tender time of prayer and lingering. Please be in prayer for the Dakin family, Seth, the staff and the church during these difficult days. 

THOT: “When a storm hits the church, it affects all of us. More than ever, we need to unite under the banner of Christ.” – Jim Cymbala

ON SECOND THOT: “With our own shortcomings, we are in no position to judge anyone else. The best way to forget the faults of others is to remember our own.” – Nicky Gumbel

Happy Thanksgiving to all our American friends and IMA readers.  I trust you have a wonderful holiday with origins deeply founded in Christian history and tradition. Enjoy the upcoming weekend.

 CHECK THIS OUT

Our Maximizing Impact Team – Peter Moore, L D Buckingham, A J Plaizier and yours truly – was at Bangor River City over the weekend. Excellent interchange with the pastors, the LBA and a very interactive focus group. We also were challenged by inspiring seminars with LDB and the Sunday service. Looking with optimism to the future at River City.  The team will be at Truro this coming weekend. Onward and upward!

While in Bangor I also had opportunity to share lunch with AJ and Kelly Thomas. The relaunch at Pathway is in it’s early stages and all signs are encouraging. 

“Shout out to all those who have been adopted. November is national adoption month.” – Seth Fancy

This past week I was involved in the General Board meeting held for the first time at 12Stone Church in Atlanta. Specifically, the board meetings were held in the John C Maxwell Leadership Centre and the board attended church on Sunday at 12Stone’s main campus.

Following the GB meeting, I chaired the first meeting of the recently-appointed Membership Working Group which also met at the Maxwell Centre. We are charged with a review of and recommendations going forward for our membership purpose, structure and function. Amazing group of leaders in the group with a deep commitment to Christ and the Church. Any recommendations of the group would go to the GB and, as approved or amended, on to the 2016 General Conference. More word later.

The Presidential Search Committee at Kingswood University has been diligently at work and will be interacting again this week. Please be in prayer for the Master’s will guiding forward in this critical process. 

Fredericton Crosspoint is the regional collection point for Operation Christmas Child boxes. They expect to see as many as 4000 boxes arrive there this weekend. Thanks to CP for being a pivot point in this popular and effective ministry to the “least” among us. Did your family fill a Christmas Child box this year? 

**NOTE: Crosspoint is hosting a Financial Freedom seminar with Pete Benson tomorrow (Tuesday) evening at 6:30 PM. This practical teaching is open to everyone and you are more than welcome to attend. That’s tomorrow – don’t miss it. 

Congrats to Matt and Laura Palmer, staff pastor at Fredericton Journey, on the arrival of their 4th child, Eliza Hope Palmer, born Sunday October 12th, weighing in at 7lbs 4oz. She was welcomed by her siblings Malachi, Charlotte and Jack.

THOT: “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain

ON SECOND THOT: “Many pastors are short term because they pick too many fights.” Thom Rainer

Our Maximizing Impact team which was at Bangor River City last weekend, was at Truro Central Nova this weekend. Excellent and stretching time with Pastor Ken Banks, the LBA, the Friday evening focus group and the Saturday AM “The Local Church is the Hope of the World” sessions.  Being in churches with the team for this 3 day event is energizing and sharpens focus on the Great Commission for all of us. 

One of the community impact ministries at Truro is Baby ’n Me, a monthly open house for moms to come and receive as gifts a wide range of baby “stuff”. Baby ’n Me was on this past Saturday while we were there. It was heart-warming to see this program in action and I personally had opportunity to briefly interface with a couple and their baby daughter. This is an idea worthy of replication in other churches. Pastor Ken would be pleased to interface if other pastors  have interest.

Your District Board of Administration (DBA) will be meeting this week in Fredericton. We will hear special reports from Stuart Marples concerning Upon This Rock (UTR), our Newfoundland church planting thrust and from A J Plaizier, a host pastor and now a team member for Maximizing Impact. 

Our church in Presque Isle hosted a youth rally last weekend under the leadership of their Youth Pastor Dave Sylvain. There were 18 youth groups represented with a total registration including youth and adult sponsors of nearly 250. Ecclesia and Jason Parker from Kingswood provided ministry to this multi-denominational group that saw many rededications and at least 3 confirmed salvations take place. PTL and thanks to Dave for this out-of-the-box wide tent event – onward and upward!

Our Sussex church is offering a one night Kings County Christmas event and it is sold out! Congrats to Pastor Don and crew. 

Our reconfigured camp board met last week in Moncton. The board now has two distinct sessions – a Catons Island Session and a Beulah Camp Session – each with its’ own members. Peter and I are the only crossovers on both boards. Peter, who Chairs both of the Sessions, has done excellent work in this restructure that is already serving to sharpen the point of our camping ministry focus. The two Sessions met together for dinner as you see above to launch this new step forward.

While in Truro for our MI weekend, the team went to the Glengarry Hotel on Friday evening for supper.  I sent a picture of the dessert table above to my wife Gloria. She promptly sent me a reply, ”Where r u? Heaven?”

THOT: “Somewhere between legalism and license, is the wonderful land of liberty. That is where I want to live.”  – Peter Moore at Kingswood Chapel

ON SECOND THOT: “Worship is no longer worship when it reflects the culture around us more than the Christ within us.” – A W Tozer

I am pleased to announce the our annual Atlantic Snow Birds Breakfast will be held on Saturday, Jan 17, 2015. We will meet, as we did last year, at the Country Kitchen in Brooksville at 9 AM. The breakfast is a gift from the Atlantic District and we will receive an offering for the vital ministry of World Hope Canada.

These breakfasts have proven over time to be a very positive event. Spread the word. Gloria and I are looking forward to seeing you and updating you on the work of our district. In the meantime, Merry Christmas!

Hammonds Plains Cornerstone had their best attendance month ever last month with an average of 314 and Truro Central Nova had their best attendance month in over 8 years with an average of 104 – Onward and upward!

The Miramichi LBA recently granted a 4 week mini-sabbatical to Pastor Gary Churchill. Congrats to Gary and to the LBA for their kind expression of support for their pastor.

Your DBA held its annual Christmas meeting last week in Fredericton. We met on Thursday and Friday.  On Thursday evening, together with our spouses, we attended a concert by Measha Brueggergosman at the Playhouse. We have an excellent, high-quality board and it is an honour to work in Kingdom ministry with them. We also had special guests Stuart Marples and A J Plaizier with us to interface with the board on UTR (Upon this Rock) – our church planting thrust in Newfoundland – and Maximizing Impact – our church revitalization ministry.  

Brazil Lake held their Road to Bethlehem production last weekend. The two presentations saw 255 people walk the “road”. Exceptional turn out in their context – well done.

Last Sunday evening the Nackawic/Millville churches held a 5th Sunday Singspiration at Maple Ridge. Ten area churches of various denominations participated and 189 people were present. A special offering was received to help Pastor Nick Graham with his medical expenses and nearly $2000 was raised. To quote Ryan Farrell “fantastic evening.”

This past week, Anton and Louise Topilnyckyj (Metro Wesleyan) attended an international gathering of military Christian fellowships held in Cape Town South Africa with 1000 other delegates representing 99 countries. The conference used prayer, praise and instruction over 70 hours to inspire and equip leaders to return home and reach their military communities. Photo is of a gift presentation of a cross made from  New Brunswick maple to the association’s president, Sri Lankan General Srial and Mrs Dilhani Weerasoorlya. Anton is the prayer co-ordinator of the Canadian military fellowship and would be pleased to share any ideas for reaching the military community.

World Hope Canada (WHC)  has recently sent a Christmas video to all of the Canadian churches in both districts. WHC is doing excellent overseas ministry and our support will be deeply appreciated and empowering.

Halifax Deep Water has launched a Scholar Series. The first instalment featured Greg Monette, a Ph. D. candidate at the University of Bristol. He serves as the Canadian Marketing Representative for Logos Bible Software and is the author of The Wrong Jesus.  He specializes in New Testament history and the origins of Christianity.

THOT: “There is no worse screen to block out the Spirit than confidence in our own intelligence.” – John Calvin

ON SECOND THOT: “A dog barks when his master is attacked. I would be a coward if I saw that God’s truth is attacked and yet remain silent.” – John Calvin

Peaceful Waters Life Coaching

Saturday, Jan 17, 2015 – 9:00 am,  Country Kitchen in Brooksville, FL

A reminder of last weeks’ announcement that our annual Atlantic Snow Birds Breakfast will be held on Saturday, Jan 17, 2015. We will meet, as we did last year, at the Country Kitchen in Brooksville at 9 AM. The breakfast is a gift from the Atlantic District and we will receive an offering for the vital ministry of World Hope Canada (WHC). Stephanie Gilmer, Executive Director of WHC will be our special guest.

Last week a prayer request was sent to all pastors relative to a special health challenge facing Bev Wilson, wife of Kevin Wilson, Lead Pastor of Halifax Metro. I am pleased to report that the results of the exploratory surgery of last Thursday were much more positive than first feared.  Kevin and Bev express their deep appreciation for prayers offered on their behalf. 

Big day at KV yesterday – 1006 in the seats and $101,000 in the plates. PTL! Onward and upward.

Our district office will close at noon on Christmas Eve and will reopen on Monday morning January 5th.  Voice mail will be monitored every day and regular mail will be checked regularly during those days. Peter and I will be available by cell as needed as well – Peter  at 506-232-7453 and yours truly at 596-962-2293. 

The Presidential Search Committee for Kingswood University, on which I am pleased to serve, has been diligently at work and will meet again this week. The process is moving along very well and initial interviews will soon take place. Continue to be in prayer for this vital appointment.

 A Christmas dinner that for the first time combined our Beulah and Caton’s staff along with our district office personnel was held at Up to Par on Friday evening. It was a very enjoyable evening of good food and warm fellowship. The youngest person there was Zachary Warren Hayes, the recently arrived son of Philip and Emma Hayes. If you know Zachary’s grandfather Peter, you will notice that he has granddad’s hair style already:).

Jasper Rideout will conclude his pastoral service at North Head at the end of this month. Thanks for remembering both Jasper and the church in prayer as God brings it to mind as we work through the pending transition in leadership. I met with their LBA last Sunday afternoon.

Gloria and I had opportunity to spend a day at our cottage on Saturday. It was a beautiful day as the river was mirror-like and the reflection impressive. The Master’s handiwork to be sure.

THOT: “How many observe Christ’s birthday! How few His precepts!” – Benjamin Franklin

ON SECOND THOT: “Yet as I read the birth stories about Jesus I cannot help but conclude that though the world may be tipped toward the rich and powerful, God is tilted toward the underdog.” – Philip Yancey

Saturday, Jan 17, 2015 – 9:00 am,  Country Kitchen in Brooksville, FL

Hillside Rally is just around the corner, so be sure to put down Feb 27-28 in your calendar for this event. Contact Michael Fearnley at michael@hillsidewesleyan.com for more info/questions.”

In just a few days, Christmas 2014 will be here and once again we offer deep and sincere thanks to the Father for the greatest game-changing gift of all time  – “unto us a child is born.”  Gloria joins me in expressing our warm regards and best wishes as we look forward to spending time with our kids and their kids. It is our honour to serve our district these days.

Amazing variety of Christmas ministries across our district including this partial list:

• Kentville distributed 21 boxes to families in need
• Sussex presented Kings County Christmas to a sell out crowd
• Bangor River City and Bangor Pathway held a combined Christmas service last night with over 100 in attendance
• Corbett presented 3 services featuring the Christmas Choir Extravaganza  
• Deep Water is concluding the series Do They Know It’s Christmas?
• Cornerstone has 5 Christmas Eve services booked and their Operation Warm Christmas will purchase 125 sleeping bags and sets of long underwear for the homeless 
• Havelock NS had 350 present for their Living Christmas Card presentation. Over 1,000 viewed their pics on FB. 
• Crosspoint will hold Crosspoint Christmas at the Convention Centre tomorrow night.
• Moncton has distributed 6,000 tickets for their 3 presentations of Hub City Christmas. They also baptized 4 last week as a result of the Alpha program.

An orientation session for our newly appointed members of the DBMD was held at the district office last week. What a great group! Our DBMD Chair Dale MacDonald gave overall direction to the session which, in addition to an onsite lunch, covered philosophy, format, function and importance of the assignment and Peter unveiled our new paperless approach. Onward and upward.

Tim Long has accepted a full time staff position at Digby effective in January. Lead Pastor Andrew Maves says, “We are jacked about this. Very exciting times in Digby.”

IMA hit another milestone last week as subscribers topped 800 for the first time. 

Our district office will close at noon on Christmas Eve and will reopen on Monday morning January 5th.  Voice mail will be monitored every day and regular mail will be checked regularly during those days. Peter and I will be available by cell as needed as well – Peter  at 506-232-7453 and yours truly at 506-962-2263. 

THOT: “It’s not the load that breaks you down. It’s the way you carry it.” – C. S. Lewis

ON SECOND THOT: “Isn’t it funny that day by day nothing changes but when you look back everything is different?”  – C. S. Lewis

Saturday, Jan 17, 2015 – 9:00 am,  Country Kitchen in Brooksville, FL

Hillside Rally is just around the corner, so be sure to put down Feb 27-28 in your calendar for this event. Contact Michael Fearnley at michael@hillsidewesleyan.com for more info/questions.”

Our district received an incredible gift over this Christmas season. The documents pictured above arrived at our office on Dec 23rd with the red ribbon attached. These are deeds from Mrs. Jean Irving to the Atlantic District and cover the Heartland house at Beulah and the 25+ acres that are a part of her expanded property there. What an amazing and highly valued gift.

I have been honoured to meet with Mr. and Mrs. Irving several times over the past few months with regards to this matter. I am not in anyway seeking to suggest that I opened the conversation concerning this gift – I was privileged to respond to Mrs. Irving’s outstanding generosity as she indicated her intent to gift these properties to our district. An amazing gift!

More Christmas season ministry highlights……

• Bangor River City held a Polar Express special kid-focused event with 139 present.
• Hammonds Plains Cornerstone had a net of 722 present at their five Christmas Eve services after repeat attenders were removed from the raw count. Ten years ago – 2004 – they had 68 present on Christmas Eve – amazing – onward and upward!
• Moncton’s Hub City Christmas held three full-house performances that saw 426 people indicate that they had invited Christ into their hearts – talk about the real reason for the season. PTL!
• Nackawic had a baby dedication in their Christmas Eve service. No better day to dedicate a baby than while observing the birth of the Christ child!
• Bristol Trinity served 142 at a community breakfast on Christmas Eve and had 182 present for the service that evening.
• Fredericton Corbett had a raw total of 1000+ at their three Christmas Choir Extravaganza plus their Christmas Eve services – more than 700 when repeat attenders are removed from the raw count.  
• Truro Central Nova delivered cookies and a “thank you” card to 30 places where people had to work on Christmas Eve and had 158 present at the service that evening.
• Kentville New Hope had nearly 400 present for their Christmas Eve services – a new record.
• Maple Ridge had 176 present for their CE service.
• Halifax Deep Water had a standing room only crowd present for a candlelight service at their  North Street campus – a new tradition in the making.
• Yarmouth had a raw total of 1875 attend their presentations of the Living Christmas Tree and their CE services – one of which was held in West Pubnico. Thirty five – 35 – people responded to “I’m giving Christ my room” – PTL!

Excellent stuff. Creative ministries. Community connections. Most of this data was retrieved from Twitter. Would love to report as widely as possible from across the tribe. Is your church on Twitter and active with praise notes and info? Love to hear from you.

Our district office will reopen on Monday morning January 5th.  Voice mail will be monitored every day and regular mail will be checked regularly during those days. Peter and I will be available by cell as needed as well – Peter at 506-232-7453 and yours truly at 506-962-2263.

Robin White received his visa clearance to return to Japan recently.  He left this past week and has arrived safely for another term as a Global Partners missionary there. Thanks to so many of you personally and to our churches for supporting Robin in his work there. 

THOT: “Resolution One: I will live for God. Resolution Two: If no one else does, I will.” – Jonathan Edwards

ON SECOND THOT: “Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed.” – Cavett Robert

A THIRD FOR GOOD MEASURE:  “Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbours and let every new year find you a better person.” – Benjamin Franklin

Saturday, Jan 17, 2015 – 9:00 am,  Country Kitchen in Brooksville, FL

Hillside Rally is just around the corner, so be sure to put down Feb 27-28 in your calendar for this event. Contact Michael Fearnley at michael@hillsidewesleyan.com for more info/questions.”

There will be circa 100 of the Atlantic tribe at the Gathering which gets under way next week. It promises to be a highlight of several days together – looking forward to it.

SPECIAL NOTE: We will be sharing in a reception at the Gathering with the Central Canada District on Tuesday evening in Salon 8 following the rally. All “Atlantics” are invited and encouraged to be present. There will be brief ministry highlights from both districts and an update on the action of the International Conference on the Canadian Conference matter. Tuesday after the rally in Salon 8. 

Pastors – March 20-21. In Moncton. Don’t miss it. More later. March 20-21. Don’t miss it. 

David and Gen Ingersoll will be supplying at North Head for January and February. They will be on the island Thursday through Sunday most weeks. Their cooperation and focus on this assignment is appreciated. 

Gloria and I drove to Florida last week and will share a week of vacation with the family this week. En route, I was pleased to have breakfast with David and Laura Zigler and their charming daughters at the Cracker Barrel in Portland. Enjoyed it greatly. 

Saturday, Jan 17, 2015 – 9:00 am,  Country Kitchen in Brooksville, FL

Dean Stephenson has been leading a Caton’s Island crew on a missions team in Haiti. This is the third year they have made this trip. They have had exceptional ministry experiences. Check out their reports and photos on Facebook at Caton’s Staff Haiti Trip 2015 Prayer Partners. Definitely worth checking. 

The District Office opens again today for our regular hours following the Christmas break. Karrilee will be on site and on task while Peter and I will both be involved in the International Conference and the Gathering in Orlando. 

THOT: “Hold yourself responsible for a higher standard than anybody expects of you. Never excuse yourself.” – Henry Ward Beecher.

ON SECOND THOUGHT: “Every tomorrow has two handles. We can take hold of it with the handle of anxiety or the handle of faith.” – Henry Ward Beecher.

Hillside Rally is just around the corner, so be sure to put down Feb 27-28 in your calendar for this event. Contact Michael Fearnley at michael@hillsidewesleyan.com for more info/questions.”

The Gathering will take place in Orlando, Florida this week. Some 2000 ministers and spouses are registered with more than 120 from our own district – excellent response.  The district was so pleased to financially support ministers and spouses who are appointed to local church ministry. I trust we will have a memory-making, Kingdom impacting experience together.

NOTE: Atlantic and Central Canada reception following the Tuesday night rally in Salon 8. 

Our annual Snowbirds Breakfast is also scheduled for this week – Saturday at 9 AM at the Country Kitchen Restaurant in Brooksville. Stephanie Gilmer from World Hope Canada will be our special guest. The breakfast is a gift from the Atlantic District and we will be receiving an offering for the ministries of World Hope. Gloria and I look forward to seeing many of you on Saturday.

The third banner event of the week will be The International Conference of The Wesleyan Church which will bring together delegates from literally dozens of countries representing the global ministries of the Wesleyan Church. One of the significant items before that body will be a resolution concerning the formation of a Canadian Established National Conference of the church.  I am pleased to serve as a delegate to these proceedings.

John denHollander Sr passed away last week. John and his family were very committed to and involved in the early church planting days with us at Dartmouth Hillside. John later enter the ministry and served our churches at Lower Brighton and Digby. Since I was in Florida, Denn Guptill, DBA member from NS, graciously consented to represent the district at the funeral.  

Connie Stewart has accepted the position of interim pastor at the Truro Heights Baptist Church.  This appointment will come effective later in the spring. 

Pastors hold this date – March 20-21 – speaker confirmed – you do not want to miss it – in Moncton – March 20-21 – hold the date – details coming. 

On a personal note – last week, we had a totally great vacation with the family at Disney World. A memory maker to be sure.

THOT: “More than entertaining and dynamic. More than loved. More than fun or eloquent or remembered. I pray that I am a speaker of TRUTH.” – Andrew Maves

ON SECOND THOT: “There may be people that have more talent than you, but there’s no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do.” – Derek Jeter

Hillside Rally is just around the corner, so be sure to put down Feb 27-28 in your calendar for this event. Contact Michael Fearnley at michael@hillsidewesleyan.com for more info/questions.”

It’s Monday Again (IMA) is on “vacation” this week, hence a modified format with Florida highlights only. Great week.  Amazing stuff. Read on!

Dr. Stephen Lennox is the unanimous choice of the Kingswood Presidential Search Committee as the single candidate for President. He and his wife Eileen will be on campus in February and then again in March for the vote of the board. More detail later on Dr Lennox. Positive plus!

Atlantic and Central Canada Districts held a joint reception following the opening rally of the Gathering. Overflow crowd. Great interaction. Sign of things to come. All good!

The Gathering saw a record number of Wesleyan ministers and spouses “gather” in Orlando. Over 100 from our district – one of the largest groups there. Inspiring. Informative. Tribal pride!

The International Conference met for two days ahead of The Gathering. One of the very significant actions was the unanimous adoption of a resolution granting conditional approval for the formation of an Established National Conference in Canada.  Details to follow. Onward and upward!

Snowbird Breakfast was a great morning on Saturday. We had Stephanie Gilmer from World Hope Canada as our guest and took an offering for their ministry. Top notch fellowship and excellent buffet. Ya gotta luv it.

See you all next week.  IMA will be back to “normal”!

Hillside Rally is just around the corner, so be sure to put down Feb 27-28 in your calendar for this event. Contact Michael Fearnley at michael@hillsidewesleyan.com for more info/questions.”

A Day With Carey Nieuwhof – Friday – March 20th – Moncton – Amazing opportunity

Pastors – watch your email this week for full details. This is a ”make tracks not excuses” event.

NOTE: Elsie Kent’s funeral will take place today – Monday – at 3 PM at River Valley Wesleyan. There will be visitation from 1-3 and a reception following the service. 

Kentville New Hope presented $2200 to the Aldershot Elementary School to assist in the costs related to their breakfast program.  Another great example of community connection.

Nelson Koonce (Blacks Harbour) and Tim Long (Digby) whose wives are sisters recently lost their father-in-law Mr Clifford Bunker. His funeral was in Tiddville, NS.

Charles Bain’s mother Ruth, a life-long Wesleyan, recently passed away and the funeral was in Wood’s Harbour, NS. Our sympathy is extended to these families in their loss. 

Our own Jamin Melanson, Pastor at Fort Fairfield, has published his first book entitled Ninjateers: Rise of a New Enemy, a science fiction novel with Christian principles highlighted throughout. To order a copy, click on the following link:

http://www.lulu.com/shop/jamin-melanson/ninjateers-rise-of-a-new-enemy/paperback/product-21976739.html

You can also look up his authors page on FB under “Jamin Melanson”.

I was in Presque Isle this weekend to speak in their two services, conduct Pastor Bud’s extended call review with the LBA, share dinner on Saturday evening with the staff pastors and lunch yesterday with Bud and Irene. The extended call was unanimously renewed and accepted.  Attendance at the two services – Saturday evening and Sunday morning was 618.

A camp caretakers works never done! This week, the small cottage on our newly acquired Heartland property was moved on one of the beautiful winter days.

Peter was at New Hope in Kentville on Saturday and Sunday. His primary focus was to assist them in the further development of the churches’ mission program and thrust. While there, he picked up a great quote from Pastor Scott’s message yesterday, “Anger is inescapable. The question is not if you will experience it but how you will express it.”

Maple Ridge unveiled their vision for 2015 this morning – great stuff. Go Nick and Mike!

THOT: “This weekend I’m preaching with a Bible inflated to 12 1/2 pounds to make it easier to grasp.” – John Ortberg

ON SECOND THOT: “There are two ways to get enough: one is to accumulate more. The other is to desire less.” – G. K. Chesterton

Check out this website for info on a unique and exciting Sunday designed especially for Men at Journey Wesleyan Church.  The day will feature a special sermon in the morning service delivered by Pastor Matt Maxwell on issues men face; then at noon we will have a great chili lunch followed by an afternoon of workshops dealing with the Biblical basis for Christian Manhood; this will also involve some funs stuff/competitions.  Then a great tailgate party followed by the Super Bowl on the Big Screen supported by an incredible sound system….just as good as being in the stadium!

We invite you to share this with every man you know; if you attend another church we want you to go to your own church in the morning then join us at noon for the rest of an exciting day!  All that for $10 per person! 

Hillside Rally is just around the corner, so be sure to put down Feb 27-28 in your calendar for this event. Contact Michael Fearnley at michael@hillsidewesleyan.com for more info/questions.”

 The Atlantic District is pumped to have Carey Nieuwhof coming to Moncton. He will be with us on Friday, March 20th at Moncton Wesleyan and YOU are invited – don’t miss it!

To Register: www.atlanticdistrict.com/carey

Resignations to date:

• Gary Churchill – Solo Pastor at Miramichi
• Raymond Fancy – Solo Pastor at Amherst 
• Evan Oxner – Assistant Pastor at Perth-Andover

I was at Miramichi yesterday morning – a beautiful day-after-the-storm. Pastor Gary resigned last week and I met with their LBA following the service yesterday. They served a lovely turkey dinner for the LBA and spouses prior to the LBA meeting.

The tribe is increasing.

Madeline Stephens, daughter of Jon and Erin (Deep Water),  arrived on Saturday and Elisha Ebbett, son of Jacob and Nikki (Havelock, NB) arrived on Jan 28th. Congrats all round and PTL for safe arrival. 

A missions team from Moncton is now in Haiti. I am a strong supporter of short-term teams. Has your church been part of a missions team?  Have you? We have the privileged responsibility to make such a difference.

Winter is here to be sure. Three commercial snowblowers in front of Tim Hortons – what could be more Canadian than that? More snow coming tomorrow and Tuesday – this too shall pass. 

THOT: “We are practised in pleading inadequacy in order to avoid living at the best God calls us to.” – Eugene Peterson

ON SECOND THOT: “Hope is the power of being cheerful in circumstances we know to be desperate.” – G. K. Chesterton

Hillside Rally is just around the corner, so be sure to put down Feb 27-28 in your calendar for this event. Contact Michael Fearnley at michael@hillsidewesleyan.com for more info/questions.”