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

Resignation Season is in Bloom!

Previously

• Jason Vienneau – staff Cornerstone
• Gary Churchill – pastor Miramichi
• Raymond Fancy – pastor Amherst
• Evan Oxner – assistant Perth-Andover

This week

• Nelson Koonce – pastor Black’s Harbour
• Ben Medal – staff Cornerstone
• Michael Zottarelli – Pastor Sackville Crossroads

Dr. Stephen Lennox is the unanimous choice of the Kingswood Presidential Search Committee as the next President of Kingswood. The Board of Trustees will vote on the recommendation on March 27th. Read more about Dr. Lennox on the Kingswood website.

He and his wife Eileen visited here this past week and Gloria and I were honoured to host them for dinner last Tuesday. We look with keen anticipation to the future of Kingswood as the university enters a new chapter of ministry. 

This week both Peter and I were “roadrunning” as pastoral recalls, extended call reviews and related matters are under review during this season. Peter visited with Lower Hainesville LBA and Scott Lewis; Monticello LBA and Jason Rooney; Fort Fairfield LBA and Jamin Melanson; Easton LBA and Jason Coffman.

I was on a Southern NS swing and visited with Dale Robertson; Brazil Lake LBA and Amy Corey; David Hockley; Woods Harbour LBA and Rod Guptill; Yarmouth LBA and John Symonds and a pastoral installation for Brad Eisan at Ingomar yesterday morning. It is always a privilege to visit with the tribal leaders.

As just mentioned, I was in Ingomar yesterday morning to install the new pastor Brad Eisan and share in a potluck dinner. There were 40+ present in the service and many unsolicited positive comments came my way concerning the first few months of Brad’s service there.

I was honoured on Thursday to make remarks and represent our district at the home going  service for Pauline Fancy – a wonderful lady who fought a good fight, kept the faith, finished her course and has been promoted to glory. The legacy of Jack and Pauline continues through a daughter, son and grandson in pastoral ministry and a granddaughter serving as a missionary in Eastern Europe.

Cornerstone has embarked on a multi-tiered project that will use a combination of energy saving initiatives and solar energy production. This will result in a decreased reliance on fossil fuels, a reduced carbon footprint and a fifty percent savings in energy costs. If your church might be interested in this, Denn will gladly have a discussion with you.

Amy Corey, pastor at Brazil Lake is on a two-month medical leave of absence effective immediately. Thanks for remembering her and the church in prayer during these days.

THOT: “Weak data compromises decisions.” – Thom Rainer

ON SECOND THOT: “Do not dare not to dare.”  C.S. Lewis

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 “REAL” VALENTINE

“St. Valentine was beaten, stoned, beheaded and buried on 14 Feb 269 AD for helping persecuted Christians and marrying Christian couples.” – Nicky Gumbel….and now you know the rest of the story.

Another snow bomb hit the district this weekend. Moncton had near-record snow fall and winds gusting to circa 100 KM.  Many of our district churches cancelled services yesterday, although at least 3 or 4 had their teaching/preaching available online during the blizzard. This too shall pass – be of good cheer – the first day of spring is only some 35 days away

Peter preached in Cairo yesterday and will be involved in leadership consultation and a ministers conference this week. He continues to serve as liaison with our Egypt field on behalf of Global Partners.  He is accompanied by his brother Bill on this Egypt trek.

Pastoral Update:

Extended calls have been reviewed and unanimously renewed at Presque Isle – Bud Fancy – and Woodstock – Dale MacDonald.

Extended calls have been recommended at Easton – Jason Coffman; Kings Valley – Brent Ingersoll and Nackawic – Ryan Farrell.  Votes scheduled soon.

District appointments have been renewed at Monticello – Jason Rooney and Fort Fairfield – Jamin Melanson. 

Our brothers and sisters in Mozambique are facing devastating circumstances due to flooding that is centered in two of the northern provinces. Their National Superintendent Rev. Graca Nhathelo, a man I know personally and greatly admire, reports “2685 houses and 23 churches destroyed and at least 58 of our church members unaccounted for. Gardens and farms are under water, people are beginning to go hungry, and many have no electricity. There is a great risk of cholera.”

Prayer and resources needed. Please give so that others may live. Pastors received the full transcript on the matter. Churches can receive your donation marked for Mozambique 2015. Please join Gloria and me in responding to this emergency. Thank you. 

I was honoured to chair a meeting this week in Ottawa as reps from the two Canadian districts worked diligently as the emerging Established National Conference of The Wesleyan Church of Canada continues to take shape. There will be a report, discussion, Q and A and a resolution to be considered at the two district conferences this summer. Onward and upward.

Last Monday we had the privilege of using our newly-acquired Heartland property for its first official function – a meeting and dinner (prepared by chef Trevor Fox) for the Beulah session of our Camp Board. The gift of this property is a truly outstanding addition to our ministry holdings.

This Easter, 20 Moncton Wesleyan Youth are headed to New York City for a week to minister with the New York School of Urban Mission at soup kitchens, food banks and in street ministry. Last Friday they held a dinner and auction themed “A Night in New York” in which attenders enjoyed a turkey dinner complete with world-class desserts followed by a auction. More than 150 items were auctioned and raised $13,000 to help fund the mission trip. Outstanding!

TROT:  “Everyone wants their church to grow…just not change.” – Carey Nieuwhof

ON SECOND THOT: “By the time kids are five I want them to know three things – God made me. God loves me. Jesus wants to be my friend forever.” – Carey Nieuwhof

AND A THIRD: “When you cast vision, focus twice as much on why you do what you do rather than what and how. Why unites, while what and how divide.” – Carey Nieuwhof

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

Beulah 2015 is only 4+ months away. Check the website for basic info with full schedule details to be posted soon. As we did last year, Friday evening will be given over to a concert of prayer that provides a foundation for the week to come. Saturday will offer a variety of activities and the camp meeting will officially launch on Sunday morning with the singing of Beulah Land. One of this year’s special one-time events will be a dedication and open house of the Heartland home and property. Looking for YOU at Beulah 2015. 

The snow attack on our neck-of-the-woods continued last week. The picture above was the view out our window at home earlier in the week. One of the biggest disadvantages we are dealing with is significant adjustments to district travel schedule during this very busy season in district life. This too shall pass…….great note from Maple Ridge yesterday morning…

Our sincere sympathy is extended to Jocelyn and the extended family on the sudden passing earlier this week of Rob Guptill, a brother to Tim and Andrea. I was privileged to attend the funeral on Saturday in Fredericton – excellent crowd present. Jocelyn’s eulogy and Tim’s message were both tender, compassionate, laced with humour and high quality.  Rob was pastoring the Lakeville Corner Baptist Church at the time of his passing.

Bessie Moore, grandmother of our Assistant DS Peter Moore, passed to her eternal reward last week. At the time of preparing IMA, the funeral service full details were not available.

I spent two days on Grand Manan last week. I always deeply enjoy the opportunity to be there. This trip involved meetings with the LBA’s at North Head, Seal Cove and Grand Harbour.  Outcomes included:

• David and Gen Ingersoll have been going to North Head on Thursday of each week and returning on Sunday since early January. This supply ministry is deeply appreciated and the LBA voted unanimously to ask them to continue this practice until Beulah time.  The Ingersolls have agreed and this very satisfactory temporary arrangement will remain in place for these months. 
• The Grand Harbour LBA is unanimously recommending an extended call for Pastor Steve Brown.
• Pastor Ward McComiskey is up for vote this year and with the support of the Seal Cove LBA, he will be available for continued service.
• The North Head LBA has invited a candidate to come for a weekend visit to occur on Mar 20-22.
• All three LBA’s voted to appoint a committee of nine persons (three from each church) to meet with me as we explore together how the Lord may lead us to see the ministry of The Wesleyan Church on Grand Manan have maximum impact. Exciting conversations ahead. 

News Notes:

• Yesterday I was in Amherst and met with their LBA as we begin the first pastoral search process they have experienced in some 15 years
• Crosspoint commissioned a short-term missions trip to Haiti yesterday. 
• Aisha Davis resigned yesterday as Children’s Pastor at Fredericton Corbett Ave.
• Peter Hayes resigned yesterday as Assistant Pastor at Fredericton Crosspoint. 
• Jason Coffman reigned yesterday as Pastor at Easton. 
• KV held a baptism weekend at both locations complete with a Baptism Party at Simmonds High School – 42 candidates – PTL for new life in Christ. 
• Conversations/contact with several pastoral candidates last week as we prayerfully seek the Master’s direction in the vital process of pastoral selection for a number of churches on the district. 

THOT: “I am an old man and have known a great many troubles, but most of them never happened.” – Mark Twain

ON SECOND THOT: “A good leader takes a little more than their share of the blame and a little less than their share of the credit.”  – Good News

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

Rally in the Valley is coming up May 1-2!  With hundreds of students from Atlantic Canada and Maine, incredible worship, and the best speakers and bands around, this event will make a big difference in the lives of your youth.  This year’s speaker is Dave Kinnan, from Rapid City, SD.  Worship will be lead by KV Worship, and we have special guests Manafest and Sky Terminal joining us for a great concert.  Combine this with local missions projects, laser tag, and more, and you are guaranteed to have a great weekend.  Check your mail for the RitV promotional pack, go to rallyinthevalley.ca, and register today!

Pastors, thanks for registering for A Day With Carey – March 20th. If you have not registered, why not? Check district web site. Make tracks not excuses.

News Notes:

• Unanimous extended call given to Brent Ingersoll at Kings Valley.
• I attended LBA meetings this week where unanimous renewal of extended calls were given to Wayne Robertson at Houlton and Rod Guptill at Woods Harbour. 
• Crosspoint has a missions team in Haiti and Truro has a team in Nicaragua.
• Graham Perry resigned yesterday at Bristol and has accepted the position of Outreach Pastor at Moncton.
• Dale Robertson resigned at Port Maitland yesterday.
• Glen McVicar resigned at Lower Brighton yesterday. 
• Josiah Wilcox has accepted an Assistant Pastor position in Eastern New York New England District working with Juanita Brooks. 
• Steve and Heather Bradley will be candidating at North Head on March 20-22. 
• Our District Board of Ministerial Development (DBMD) interviewed 33 candidates this week at Kingswood, Crosspoint and Houlton. Great to be involved in the nurture and care of our prophets-in-process. 

Our Maximizing Impact Team was in Woods Harbour last weekend – Friday over Sunday. Peter Moore was unable to be with us due to the funeral of his grandmother and Denn Guptill agreed to be with our team and contributed at a high level.

We had an excellent time with the pastors, leaders, Saturday morning training time and Sunday morning worship. Positive interaction in our interviews both personal and group. The report was well received and optimism is stirring.

We were royally entertained as the pic above indicates. Sincere thanks to Rod and Joy for their top notch hospitality. 

MI next stop – Woodstock – March 13-15, 2015. 

The Hillside Rally was a success with over 100 students in attendance. Ministries/activities included services, seminars and community ministries (nursing home to garbage cleanup). Thanks to Mike Fearnley from Hillside for providing overall leadership to this event.  

THOT: “Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” – Francis of Assisi

ON SECOND THOT: “Above all the grace and the gifts that Christ gives to his beloved is that of overcoming self.” – Francis of Assisi

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

Rally in the Valley is coming up May 1-2!  With hundreds of students from Atlantic Canada and Maine, incredible worship, and the best speakers and bands around, this event will make a big difference in the lives of your youth.  This year’s speaker is Dave Kinnan, from Rapid City, SD.  Worship will be lead by KV Worship, and we have special guests Manafest and Sky Terminal joining us for a great concert.  Combine this with local missions projects, laser tag, and more, and you are guaranteed to have a great weekend.  Check your mail for the RitV promotional pack, go to rallyinthevalley.ca, and register today!

A DAY WITH CAREY is next week – Friday the 20th.  Will be a great day. Pumped.

• I chaired a meeting on Monday in which the LBA at Saint John First – sj1 – voted unanimously to recommend Seth Fancy to the congregation as their Lead Pastor.
• Nackawic voted unanimously yesterday to approve the LBA recommendation to place Pastor Ryan Farrell on an extended call. 
• I chaired a meeting of the LBA at Kentville New Hope yesterday in which they unanimously renewed the extended call of Lead Pastor Scott Prime.
• Seal Cove voted last Sunday to recall Pastor Ward McComiskey for a two-year term.
• Pastor Bill Lea resigned yesterday at West Head.
• Pastor Jacob Ebbett resigned yesterday at Havelock, NB. 
• Peter and Cathy Hayes recently were in Indianapolis for an initial interview with Global Partners as they explore the possibility of missionary service. 
• Amherst and Blacks Harbour both interviewed potential pastoral candidates last week.

I was at Crossroads Wesleyan in Lower Sackville yesterday morning.  Pastor Michael Zottarelli resigned a few weeks ago and we considered possible options going forward for this small congregation.  No decisions made and the DBA will have the matter on the agenda for our spring meeting next week.

Congratulations to our own Mark Gorveatte who was elected District Superintendent of the Indiana Central District at a reconvened district conference held in Indianapolis last Saturday. Mark will assume his duties in late June. We wish him the Master’s very best in this new assignment. 

The mission team to Nicaragua that came from our churches in Truro and Blacks Harbour has returned home safely. The team to Haiti from Crosspoint is also back safe and sound. Have you been on a missions team trip?

THOT: “We are not diplomats but prophets, and our message is not a compromise but an ultimatum.”  – A. W. Tozer

ON SECOND THOT: “You can see God from anywhere if your mind is set to love and obey him.” – A. W. Tozer

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

ALIVE is a Women’s Conference Simulcast from Nashville, TN, that will be part of Journey’s Women’s Conference. It includes Powerful Preaching and Live Worship. Ladies, you don’t want to miss it!

Friday, April 24th and Saturday, April 25th

Church Locations and Registration:
– Journey Wesleyan (Fredericton, NB)
– Hillside Wesleyan (Dartmouth, NS)

Rally in the Valley is coming up May 1-2!  With hundreds of students from Atlantic Canada and Maine, incredible worship, and the best speakers and bands around, this event will make a big difference in the lives of your youth.  This year’s speaker is Dave Kinnan, from Rapid City, SD.  Worship will be lead by KV Worship, and we have special guests Manafest and Sky Terminal joining us for a great concert.  Combine this with local missions projects, laser tag, and more, and you are guaranteed to have a great weekend.  Check your mail for the RitV promotional pack, go to rallyinthevalley.ca, and register today!

“I’m ready to dropkick winter.” – Jon Stephens/Deep Water Church

Services were cancelled yesterday in at least 10 of our churches. Several – 6 or more – moved their service to Saturday evening since Sunday was going to “blizzard out.” Well done, since the act of corporate worship is far more important than the time/place where such worship takes place. 

This is the week. Will be a great day. See YOU on Friday with registration at 9 and opening session at 10. Moncton Wesleyan. Lots of friends from other tribes will join us for the day.  Remember – tracks not excuses. 

• Andy Philips received and accepted a unanimous four-year recall at Jonesport.
• David Wilcox received and accepted an extended call from the church in Hartland by an overwhelming majority overall vote of 82-1.
• David Hockley has accepted the invitation from Woods Harbour to remain there for another year as Assistant Pastor.
• AJ Guptill resigned his staff position at Crosspoint yesterday.
• This coming Sunday the 22nd Steve Bradley will candidate at North Head; Glen McVicar at Havelock, NB; Jacob Ebbett at Lower Brighton and David Green at Miramichi.
• Candidates have been and are being interviewed at Amherst, Blacks Harbour and Bristol.
• Del Heiney, formerly the Youth Pastor at KV, has been appointed as KV’s first ever Executive Pastor.
• Peter and I were in Easton last week and met with both the LBA and at a town hall type meeting with the congregation as we work through the pastoral transition there. Good spirit in the meeting and a strong desire to see the church move onward and upward. 

Bangor Pathway held their Relaunch Sunday yesterday. The good work of AJ and the Pathway crew in laying the groundwork for Pathway to become a church of impact in Bangor is celebrated. Onward and upward. 

Our Maximizing Impact team (Moore, Plaizier, Wilson) was at Woodstock Wesleyan on Friday and Saturday for an MI Weekend – our 5th church to date. Our Sunday wrap up was delayed due to the storm and we plan to be back in Woodstock the last Sunday of this month. Steve Elliott was a new addition to our team and did a great job in the Saturday training sessions.  As always, we shared an on-site pizza lunch on Saturday and the pic above includes the Lead Pastor, LBA vice-chair, the Treasurer and that other guy involved in MI discussion – what a crew!

THOT: “How radically new my life would be if I were willing to move beyond blaming to proclaiming the works of God in our midst.” – Henri Nouwen 

ON SECOND THOT: “It takes 20 years to build a reputation and 5 minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.” – Warren Buffett.

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

ALIVE is a Women’s Conference Simulcast from Nashville, TN, that will be part of Journey’s Women’s Conference. It includes Powerful Preaching and Live Worship. Ladies, you don’t want to miss it!

Friday, April 24th and Saturday, April 25th

Church Locations and Registration:
– Journey Wesleyan (Fredericton, NB)
– Hillside Wesleyan (Dartmouth, NS)
– Houlton Wesleyan (Houlton, ME)

Rally in the Valley is coming up May 1-2!  With hundreds of students from Atlantic Canada and Maine, incredible worship, and the best speakers and bands around, this event will make a big difference in the lives of your youth.  This year’s speaker is Dave Kinnan, from Rapid City, SD.  Worship will be lead by KV Worship, and we have special guests Manafest and Sky Terminal joining us for a great concert.  Combine this with local missions projects, laser tag, and more, and you are guaranteed to have a great weekend.  Check your mail for the RitV promotional pack, go to rallyinthevalley.ca, and register today!

A Day with Carey was a super day. Over 135 of our tribe joined with some 70 others for a full and impacting day. Practical and pointed teaching in the four sessions during the day, with a special banquet in the evening as a classy wrap up to the day. Special thanks to Tim Guptill and the crew at Moncton Wesleyan for top class event hosting and to Gayla Guptill for preparing and organizing our banquet. Pumped.

Dr. Stephen Lennox and his wife Eileen will be at Kingswood later this week for his election to the office of President of the University. We are all greatly anticipating his arrival and anticipate a high water mark board meeting on Friday. 

• Ben Medel will candidate in Bristol this coming Sunday.
• Evan Oxner will candidate in Amherst this coming Sunday.
• Grand Harbour gave a unanimous extended call to Steve Brown yesterday and he accepted.
• Lower Brighton gave a unanimous initial call to Jacob Ebbett yesterday and he accepted.
• Saint John First – sj1 – gave a near unanimous vote – 93-4 – to Seth Fancy yesterday and he accepted.
• Woodstock received 21 new members yesterday – PTL!
• The DBA met on Thursday and had a very productive meeting.

Peter and I were in Southern NS over the weekend and held meetings or made pastoral contact in Havelock, Port Maitland, Yarmouth, Woods Harbour, West Head and Kentville. I love spending time with the tribe!

We dropped in at Yarmouth on Sunday morning unannounced and unexpected. We truly enjoyed the service, the worship band and the pointed sermon on The Big C – Commitment. If I lived in Yarmouth, I’d go to church at YWC without doubt. 

Congrats to Tom and Jessica Cann on the safe arrival of Ruby Jean Kathleen who arrived on March 16th weighing in at 8.2. Baby, mum, dad and big sister are all well.

THOT: “Many of us are 5000 Bible verses overweight. We need to work it off.” – Carey Nieuwhof

ON SECOND THOT: “ An average leader will try to make people drink while great leaders make people thirsty.” – Brian Dodd

April 14, 9 am until Noon
Guest Speaker: Dr. Laurel Buckingham

Topics:
1.Leadership Requirements to connect with today’s culture.
2. Culturally relevant methods to reach the lost

To Register contact Pastor Dwayne Broad (506) 273-6562

ALIVE is a Women’s Conference Simulcast from Nashville, TN, that will be part of Journey’s Women’s Conference. It includes Powerful Preaching and Live Worship. Ladies, you don’t want to miss it!

Friday, April 24th and Saturday, April 25th

Church Locations and Registration:
– Journey Wesleyan (Fredericton, NB)
– Hillside Wesleyan (Dartmouth, NS)
– Houlton Wesleyan (Houlton, ME)

Join for an evening of food and celebration as we rejoice in all that Goad has done though World Hope Canada.

Guest Speaker: Anne Medders
Friday April 24 at 6:00 PM
Wesley Hall – Kingswood University

Seating is limited please call (877) 482-1499 or email  tami@worldhope.ca by April 15 to reserver your spot.

Rally in the Valley is coming up May 1-2!  With hundreds of students from Atlantic Canada and Maine, incredible worship, and the best speakers and bands around, this event will make a big difference in the lives of your youth.  This year’s speaker is Dave Kinnan, from Rapid City, SD.  Worship will be lead by KV Worship, and we have special guests Manafest and Sky Terminal joining us for a great concert.  Combine this with local missions projects, laser tag, and more, and you are guaranteed to have a great weekend.  Check your mail for the RitV promotional pack, go to rallyinthevalley.ca, and register today!

I am very pleased to report the unanimous election of Dr Stephen Lennox to the office of President of Kingswood University.  Dr Lennox, an ordained Wesleyan minister, holds the PhD degree from Drew University and pastored Wesleyan churches for 10 years prior to serving on the faculty of Indiana Wesleyan University for more than 20 years.  Dr Lennox will assume his duties at Kingswood this summer.  He and his wife Eileen, a nurse practitioner, have two children and two grandchildren. We enthusiastically welcome them to Kingswood!

During this season of pastoral transitions, we have posted a News and Notes section for several weeks – here is this weeks info…..

• North Head extended a call to Steve Bradley last week and he has accepted. Welcome back!
• Stefan Gilbert has been offered and has accepted the Assistant Pastor position at Hammonds Plains Cornerstone. 
• Liz Stewart concluded her service as a staff pastor at Kentville New Hope last week. 
• Miramichi extended a unanimous call to David Green yesterday and he has accepted.  Welcome! 
• The LBA at Perth-Andover renewed the extended call of Pastor Reg Thomas at an LBA meeting yesterday and he has accepted. 
• Havelock, NB extended a unanimous call to Glen McVicar yesterday and he has accepted. 
• Ben Medel candidated at Bristol Trinity yesterday and Evan Oxner at Amherst. Very positive reports from the vice chairs in both churches. 
• Blacks Harbour and Port Maitland are both in the interview stage of the search process. 
• Kings Valley hit a new all-time high regular Sunday attendance yesterday of 1199 – congrats – onward and upward.

Pete Benson conducted a Financial Freedom seminar at Kings Valley on Wednesday evening.  Excellent crowd present to hear this practical and helpful teaching. He was also in Woodstock on Thursday evening. Looking forward to spring ’16 and a day with Pete for our pastors – more word to follow. 

The Maximizing Impact Weekend at Woodstock two weeks ago was interrupted by a snow storm – I know that’s hard to believe :). Peter and I returned there yesterday to share our report with the pastor and his wife, and subsequently with the Sunday AM congregation. We are so thankful for this solid  church with a forward ministry focus.

This is the fifth church on our district to be a part of Maximizing Impact – Fredericton Corbett, Bangor River City, Truro, Woods Harbour and Woodstock. We have received very positive feedback from all of these visits. Dartmouth Hillside is scheduled for this fall. There will be an opportunity at District Conference for other churches to sign up. 

PASTORS NOTE: 

Just a reminder that the GS has instructed us to submit Easter attendance totals to her office soon after Easter Sunday.  Please submit these numbers by Tuesday, April 7 to ptmoore@atlanticdistrict.com. Thanks in advance for being prompt.  Appreciated.

Gloria and I will be leaving later this week for a brief break and will return to the district on April 11th. While I will check email once per day for emergency/vital communication, routine matters will accumulate in my inbox. Both Peter and Karrilee will be available and will be pleased to respond to any inquiry – ptmoore@atlanticdistrict.com,@PTMooreATL  or karrilee@atlanticdistrict.com.

THOT:

“I am not limited to a certain location. Point Blank, I’m open. Not concerned with where I live, what I live in, or what I am doing….as long as I am serving the Lord to my full capacity.”  – from a minister in our tribe seeking an appointment – sounds like the New Testament to me – impressive!

ON SECOND THOT:  “We have to be continually reminded of what we believe.” – C. S. Lewis 

April 14, 9 am until Noon
Guest Speaker: Dr. Laurel Buckingham

Topics:
1.Leadership Requirements to connect with today’s culture.
2. Culturally relevant methods to reach the lost

To Register contact Pastor Dwayne Broad (506) 273-6562

ALIVE is a Women’s Conference Simulcast from Nashville, TN, that will be part of Journey’s Women’s Conference. It includes Powerful Preaching and Live Worship. Ladies, you don’t want to miss it!

Friday, April 24th and Saturday, April 25th

Church Locations and Registration:
– Journey Wesleyan (Fredericton, NB)
– Hillside Wesleyan (Dartmouth, NS)
– Houlton Wesleyan (Houlton, ME)

Join for an evening of food and celebration as we rejoice in all that God has done though World Hope Canada.

Guest Speaker: Anne Medders
Friday April 24 at 6:00 PM
Wesley Hall – Kingswood University

Seating is limited please call (877) 482-1499 or email  tami@worldhope.ca by April 15 to reserver your spot.

Rally in the Valley is coming up May 1-2!  With hundreds of students from Atlantic Canada and Maine, incredible worship, and the best speakers and bands around, this event will make a big difference in the lives of your youth.  This year’s speaker is Dave Kinnan, from Rapid City, SD.  Worship will be lead by KV Worship, and we have special guests Manafest and Sky Terminal joining us for a great concert.  Combine this with local missions projects, laser tag, and more, and you are guaranteed to have a great weekend.  Check your mail for the RitV promotional pack, go to rallyinthevalley.ca, and register today!

“He is not here.  He is risen, just as He said.”

Beulah 2015 is just three months away. Don’t miss it. Dr. Wayne Schmidt and Rev. Mark Wilson along with mystery preachers from our tribe will be bringing the Word. The Rhynos will lead worship; a dedication and open house of Heartland will be a highlight; Evening on the Blvd is always tops; weekday program specials for all ages will have appeal; the new President of Kingswood will be preaching; special Jesus Film guest; meet newly appointed missionaries; more specials to be announced. Don’t miss it.

 Congrats to Seth and Lee Ann Fancy who welcomed Eden Grace on March 30.  All are doing well and first-time grandparents Bud and Irene are proud as peacocks as they say.

The news of spring continues…..

• Head of Millstream gave a unanimous recall to pastor Vince Robertson and he has accepted.
• Bill Lea is candidating at Port Maitland on April 12.
• Amherst extended an initial call to Evan Oxner yesterday and he has accepted.
• Bristol extended an initial call to Ben Medel yesterday and he has accepted.
• Corbett Ave had 303 present last Sunday and will be launching a third service – this one on Saturday night – for an eight-week trial. They also baptized 12 yesterday.
• Maple Ridge had 190 present yesterday and baptized 3 converts. 
• Lower Hainesville had 21 hardy souls who were in attendance for a Easter sunrise service yesterday on Crabbe Mtn where the temperature was -17. 
• Great Easter reports coming in – conversions, baptisms, baby dedication, record attendances, the Master at work, the Kingdom advancing.
• More Easter details next week…….

The youth group from Moncton led by Pastor of Youth and Young Adult Ministries Andrew Donovan are in New York City on a missions trip. These experiences are of high impact as youth develop their worldview and seek to find their place in Kingdom service.

The first Alpha group at Woodstock was launched last Sunday evening. A great group in attendance for what is continuing to prove to be an excellent vehicle for spiritual growth and development. Do you have Alpha at your church?

Deep Water Church – North Street was packed for part one of  “The Death and Resurrection of God” Easter series this past Friday.

Sussex Wesleyan hosted a town wide Good Friday service. Great turnout and Dr. Leo Gallant preached.

Moncton Wesleyan Church held an Easter Bunny Blast on Saturday. 2400 people attended and 1900 were served breakfast. This event included face painting, bouncy castles and 40,000 Easter eggs! The real story of Easter was powerfully shared.

Gloria and I left on Friday for a brief break and will return to the district on April 11th. While I will check email once per day for emergency/vital communication, routine matters will accumulate in my inbox. Both Peter and Karrilee will be available and will be pleased to respond to any inquiry – ptmoore@atlanticdistrict.com,@PTMooreATL  or karrilee@atlanticdistrict.com. 

THOT: “Today I’m thinking about Judas and the mystery of evil and free will. He was by the side of Jesus and still he chose to betray. Stay alert! “ Fr James Mallon

ON SECOND THOT: “A man who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others, including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act.” – Mahatma Gandhi

April 14, 9 am until Noon
Guest Speaker: Dr. Laurel Buckingham

Topics:
1.Leadership Requirements to connect with today’s culture.
2. Culturally relevant methods to reach the lost

To Register contact Pastor Dwayne Broad (506) 273-6562

ALIVE is a Women’s Conference Simulcast from Nashville, TN, that will be part of Journey’s Women’s Conference. It includes Powerful Preaching and Live Worship. Ladies, you don’t want to miss it!

Friday, April 24th and Saturday, April 25th

Church Locations and Registration:
– Journey Wesleyan (Fredericton, NB)
– Hillside Wesleyan (Dartmouth, NS)
– Houlton Wesleyan (Houlton, ME)

Join for an evening of food and celebration as we rejoice in all that God has done though World Hope Canada.

Guest Speaker: Anne Medders
Friday April 24 at 6:00 PM
Wesley Hall – Kingswood University

Seating is limited please call (877) 482-1499 or email  tami@worldhope.ca by April 15 to reserver your spot.

Rally in the Valley is coming up May 1-2!  With hundreds of students from Atlantic Canada and Maine, incredible worship, and the best speakers and bands around, this event will make a big difference in the lives of your youth.  This year’s speaker is Dave Kinnan, from Rapid City, SD.  Worship will be lead by KV Worship, and we have special guests Manafest and Sky Terminal joining us for a great concert.  Combine this with local missions projects, laser tag, and more, and you are guaranteed to have a great weekend.  Check your mail for the RitV promotional pack, go to rallyinthevalley.ca, and register today!

Children’s Ministry Grand Manan Huddle

May 22 (travel to GM), May 23 Central Wesleyan  from 9 AM to noon

$10 per person. For more info or to register contact Kinda Lamos at linda.lamos@kingsvalley.ca. 

Gloria and I flew into Halifax on Saturday evening from our cruise vacation last week.  Great few days of R&R and glad to be back on task for the Kingdom. Thanks for understanding that It’s Monday Again is a bit abbreviated this week.

Yesterday I was honoured to represent the tribe and bring greetings/remarks at the 20th anniversary of Cornerstone Wesleyan in Hammonds Plains. Denn and Angela Guptill planted the church 20 years ago and Denn continues to serve as Lead Pastor. A congregation of 360 were present in their two services to celebrate the past and look to the future. All three levels of government were represented – Municipal, Provincial and Federal – and commended Denn and Cornerstone for their positive presence in the community. Denn’s message was passionate and on point. Karen Wickwire, who was present on the opening service in 1995 and continues to be very involved in the ministry of the church, was honoured for her consistent and faithful service. Great day. Congrats and PTL!

Easter 2015 Atlantic District Overview

At the instruction of our General Superintendent, we collected data from Easter weekend 2015 in the following categories:

Weekend attendance – the grand total of attendance at any/all Easter weekend events in the church.

Primary Service attendance – the total attendance at primary services which would be Sunday AM in most cases but would also include Sat PM services where such are held.

Conversions and baptisms numbers are as reported by the churches. 

Overall totals will appear next week and there could be minor adjustments in the following as we are still waiting on numbers from just a few stragglers:).

Summary Notes:

1. Eighty one made professions of faith.
2. Thirty three were baptized.
3. Two babies were dedicated.
4. Two churches reported weekend attendance exceeding 1500.
5. Seven churches reported weekend attendance exceeding 500.
6. Eleven churches reported weekend attendance exceeding 400.
7. Fourteen churches reported weekend attendance exceeding 300.
8. Fifteen churches reported weekend attendance exceeding 200.
9. Thirty three churches reported weekend attendance exceeding 100.
10. Circa 95% of our churches reported weekend attendance that exceeded last year’s average attendance.
11. A great Kingdom impact weekend. Onward and upward.

Special Note:

Our pastor at Lower Hainesville, Scott Lewis, is bi-vocational as he supports his family and pastors this small rural congregation. The following is an excerpt from a recent email from Scott:

Dr. Wilson,

I have been out of work for over three weeks and unable to find any income. Would you be willing to make mention in Monday Again that I am seeking employment to supplement my income. Location isn’t an issue, can be anywhere from Sussex to Fredericton or Saint John. My cellphone is 471-9914 and my email is lrhnsvlwes@hotmail.ca

Thank you for your kind consideration.

Scott Lewis

THOT: “There was no defeat in his heart.” – comment on Winston Churchill during the dark days of World War II by a British General.

ON SECOND THOT: “No one makes a greater mistake than someone who did nothing because they could only do a little.” – Edmund Burke

April 14, 9 am until Noon
Guest Speaker: Dr. Laurel Buckingham

Topics:
1.Leadership Requirements to connect with today’s culture.
2. Culturally relevant methods to reach the lost

To Register contact Pastor Dwayne Broad (506) 273-6562

ALIVE is a Women’s Conference Simulcast from Nashville, TN, that will be part of Journey’s Women’s Conference. It includes Powerful Preaching and Live Worship. Ladies, you don’t want to miss it!

Friday, April 24th and Saturday, April 25th

Church Locations and Registration:
– Journey Wesleyan (Fredericton, NB)
– Hillside Wesleyan (Dartmouth, NS)
– Houlton Wesleyan (Houlton, ME)

Join for an evening of food and celebration as we rejoice in all that God has done though World Hope Canada.

Guest Speaker: Anne Medders
Friday April 24 at 6:00 PM
Wesley Hall – Kingswood University

Seating is limited please call (877) 482-1499 or email  tami@worldhope.ca by April 15 to reserver your spot.

Rally in the Valley is coming up May 1-2!  With hundreds of students from Atlantic Canada and Maine, incredible worship, and the best speakers and bands around, this event will make a big difference in the lives of your youth.  This year’s speaker is Dave Kinnan, from Rapid City, SD.  Worship will be lead by KV Worship, and we have special guests Manafest and Sky Terminal joining us for a great concert.  Combine this with local missions projects, laser tag, and more, and you are guaranteed to have a great weekend.  Check your mail for the RitV promotional pack, go to rallyinthevalley.ca, and register today!

Children’s Ministry Grand Manan Huddle

May 22 (travel to GM), May 23 Central Wesleyan  from 9 AM to noon

$10 per person. For more info or to register contact Kinda Lamos at linda.lamos@kingsvalley.ca. 

Last week IMA contained a range of Easter 2015 stats. There is so much praise due to the Master and commendation to so many pastors that seized the opportunity to make the most significant day in the Christian calendar a time of outreach and special programming. I am pleased now to have all reports in and to share the overall final totals:

• Conversions – 88
• Baptisms – 34
• Baby dedications – 3
• Attendance – 17,548 

Our DBMD now has three groups that meet in three regions – North, Central and South – to conduct the annual interviews with our ministerial students and licensed ministers. The last of those meetings, the South group, was held this week in Crossroads Wesleyan in Lower Sackville. We interviewed 15 candidates and the Executive Committee conducted ordination interviews with Sharon Guptill – Dartmouth Hillside; Jerry Wurnig – Halifax Deep Water; and Tim Long – Digby.  The Central and North interviews were conducted earlier.  The future is bright and promising. 

• Amy Corey resigned yesterday at Brazil Lake after serving as pastor there for six years
• Tony Stevens interviewed last week at Easton and will be candidating there the first Sunday in May.
• Hammonds Plains Cornerstone took a special 20th Anniversary offering for church planting. They received $5000 which will be divided equally between our district and the denomination in support of church planting. Great idea. Appreciated.
• Fredericton Corbett Ave added a Saturday evening service last week for an eight-week trial and their three weekend services had 339 in attendance – a record for a “regular” weekend. They have hired Matt Fahringer, a 2014 KU grad, as their new Student Ministry Pastor.
• Judy Adams has been appointed part-time Protestant Chaplain at the Nova Institution for Women.
• Halifax Deep Water held a baptism yesterday in their Park Lane service.
• The Buckingham Leadership Institute held its annual banquet on Friday evening at Kingswood University. I was pleased to be present along with a room full of people from a wide variety of faith communities. Inspiring.
• Perth-Andover cancelled services yesterday due to flooding risk from an ice jam in the Saint John River. 
• Gloria and I worshipped at Browns Flat yesterday. The signs of spring are still largely in hiding but beginning to poke their noses out around the camp ground – Beulah Camp 2015 is only three months away. See YOU there.

Bangor Pathway is relocating on May 3rd to Jeff’s Catering. This is a forward step in the relaunch of Pathway and we celebrate this new and spacious facility. Onward and upward.

While in Nova Scotia for DBMD meetings last week, three of us dropped in at Hillside’s Parkway campus. The church provides a free Mac ‘n Cheese lunch to students from Cole Harbour High School and we happened to be present on one of the days when lunch was being served. We not only enjoyed seeing the students but sampled the product! Great to see these students pouring through the doors of the church. 

THOT: “Don’t break the silence unless you can improve on it.” – Our Daily Bread.

ON SECOND THOT: “The most important persuasion tool you have in your entire arsenal is integrity.” – Zig Ziglar

April 14, 9 am until Noon
Guest Speaker: Dr. Laurel Buckingham

Topics:
1.Leadership Requirements to connect with today’s culture.
2. Culturally relevant methods to reach the lost

To Register contact Pastor Dwayne Broad (506) 273-6562

ALIVE is a Women’s Conference Simulcast from Nashville, TN, that will be part of Journey’s Women’s Conference. It includes Powerful Preaching and Live Worship. Ladies, you don’t want to miss it!

Friday, April 24th and Saturday, April 25th

Church Locations and Registration:
– Hillside Wesleyan (Dartmouth, NS)
– Houlton Wesleyan (Houlton, ME)

Join for an evening of food and celebration as we rejoice in all that God has done though World Hope Canada.

Friday April 24 at 6:00 PM
Wesley Hall – Kingswood University

Seating is limited please call (877) 482-1499 or email  tami@worldhope.ca by April 15 to reserver your spot.

Rally in the Valley is coming up May 1-2!  With hundreds of students from Atlantic Canada and Maine, incredible worship, and the best speakers and bands around, this event will make a big difference in the lives of your youth.  This year’s speaker is Dave Kinnan, from Rapid City, SD.  Worship will be lead by KV Worship, and we have special guests Manafest and Sky Terminal joining us for a great concert.  Combine this with local missions projects, laser tag, and more, and you are guaranteed to have a great weekend.  Check your mail for the RitV promotional pack, go to rallyinthevalley.ca, and register today!

Children’s Ministry Grand Manan Huddle

May 22 (travel to GM), May 23 Central Wesleyan  from 9 AM to noon

$10 per person. For more info or to register contact Kinda Lamos at linda.lamos@kingsvalley.ca. 

The most recent issue of Wesleyan Life features the ministry of five of our churches – Truro, Cornerstone, Deep Water, Kings Valley and Corbett Avenue. If you have not seen the print copy, you may access the article www.wesleyan.org. Check it out.

World Hope Canada (WHC) held their semi-annual board meeting last week at Kingswood University. The meeting highlight was the 15th Anniversary Gala that drew some 175 people to an excellent meal and program featuring special guest Sergiy Sviston from the Ukraine and greetings from Anne Medders, the founding director of WHH. More than $30,000 was raised in support of WHC ministries. 

• Donnie MacDougal resigned yesterday as youth pastor at Woodstock.
• Peter and Kathy Hayes have been appointed missionaries to Cambodia by Global Partners. Congrats! 
• Fort Fairfield received 7 new members yesterday. PTL!!
• Deep Water held an #outofthisworld party for their Upstream Kids ministry with a total attendance of 130 and HALF of the kids were new guests. 
• Yesterday was Pathway’s last Sunday in what has been their home for about a decade. New home next week – onward and upward.
• IMA set new records for number of readers 3 of the last 4 weeks. 

The Atlantic District has a great track record of impacting lives through short term mission trips and GP Atlantic would love to know what your church has planned in the next twelve months.  If your local church is planning one or a number of trips could you please contact Denn Guptill, our District Director of Global Partners with the details.  You can email him the information at denn@cornerstonehfx.ca

Alive Halifax the denominational Women’s conference took place Friday and Saturday at Hillside Parkway campus. God’s presence was evident and experienced throughout the weekend. 80+ in attendance from churches in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. A great turn out. The worship was provided by Deep Water; Keynote speakers:  Bianca Olthoff, Jo Saxon and Dr. Jo Anne Lyon (by livestream) Robin Churchill (RCMP) did an interview on Human Trafficking Awareness. The weekend was a great experience. Leadership was shared by Pastor Marilyn Mansvelt (Cornerstone) Amanda Oicle (Deep Water) and Pastor Sharon Guptill (Hillside). Thanks to the Halifax churches for helping out. 

I was honoured to be a part of a Dragon’s Den program on Saturday evening that interviewed three teams from Kingswood University as they presented their plans for church planting in Trois-Rivières, Quebec; Toronto, Ontario; and Seattle, Washington. Excellent work by all teams. Very energizing. Thanks to Mark Parker and Steve Elliott for putting this together.  

THOT: “Live in such a way that you would not be ashamed to sell your parrot to the town gossip.” – Will Rogers

ON SECOND THOT: “If you want to be successful, it’s just this simple. Know what you are doing. Love what you are doing. And believe in what you are doing.” – Will Rogers

Rally in the Valley is coming up May 1-2!  With hundreds of students from Atlantic Canada and Maine, incredible worship, and the best speakers and bands around, this event will make a big difference in the lives of your youth.  This year’s speaker is Dave Kinnan, from Rapid City, SD.  Worship will be lead by KV Worship, and we have special guests Manafest and Sky Terminal joining us for a great concert.  Combine this with local missions projects, laser tag, and more, and you are guaranteed to have a great weekend.  Check your mail for the RitV promotional pack, go to rallyinthevalley.ca, and register today!

Children’s Ministry Grand Manan Huddle

May 22 (travel to GM), May 23 Central Wesleyan  from 9 AM to noon

$10 per person. For more info or to register contact Kinda Lamos at linda.lamos@kingsvalley.ca. 

Only two months till Beulah 2015. It will be a great experience – Wayne Schmidt and Mark Wilson preaching/teaching; Jesus Film service with Director John Croft; special first-time Family Service; ministry outside the church celebrated; Heartland (the former Irving property) open house and dedication; Evening on the Blvd; meet new missionaries; hear the new President of Kingswood University; baptisms; Rhyno-led worship; three mystery preachers from our tribe; Maximizing Impact and Upon this Rock highlights; General Conference 2016 delegates elected and more. Don’t miss it. See YOU there.

The massive devastation in Nepal from the recent earthquake is heartbreaking. Among the many who are suffering are people who are part of the worldwide family of The Wesleyan Church. Some of our people have lost their lives.

I know that many of us either have helped already or intend to do so. Those of you in the US may go to www.wesleyan.org and click on the Donate to Wesleyan Emergency Relief Fund (WERF) and follow the instructions. This, however, will not work unless you have a US address.

Canadians may donate through their churches and those funds will be forwarded on through The Wesleyan Church of Canada. Donors should include WERF in the memo line. Thanks for your response to this disaster.

• Pathway held their first service in their new digs yesterday as their relaunch continues to move forward.  The morning was “stellar” to use AJ’s word. Onward and upward.
• Brent and Melanie Ingersoll welcomed their third child Alexander David last week. He arrived safe and sound and Alexander and mom are both doing well (as well as dad, and big sister and brother). PTL for safe arrival.
• Nelson Koonce has interviewed with and will be candidating soon at Bakers Mills Wesleyan in the Eastern New York New England District.
• Truro had their highest attendance month in 9 years in April. Congrats.
• Bill Lea interviewed at Blacks Harbour last week and candidated there yesterday.
• Kings Valley averaged 1024 in primary worship service for the year just ended, only the second church in our tribe to top 1000 in average. Another barrier shattered.
• Kevin Myers announced yesterday that the New Roots plant in Sydney is being discontinued and will wrap up before summer. Kevin and Laura have laboured diligently and faithfully and many of you have supported with your prayers and finances. We are all saddened by this but are thankful for the difference made in the lives of those who have been ministered to at New Roots.
• Saint John First (sj1) held a #freecycle last week that was very well attended and touched many lives. In the words of Lead Pastor Seth Fancy, “So many people blessed.”
• Tony Stevens interviewed at Easton recently. He candidated there yesterday and has accepted the call to become their pastor.

Rally in the Valley at KV held over the weekend once again exceeded expectations. David Kinnan, Lead Pastor at Fountain Springs Church in Rapid City, SD was the Master’s spokesperson for the Rally (he also preached at KV yesterday). Energetic worship, excellent messages, powerful challenges, students from far and wide, commitments made…..a great event. Thanks to Del Heiny and all his crew – well done once again.

Our annual Beulah work day is scheduled for Saturday May 23 (with the 30th as a rain date). This is a great preparation boost for the summer season. Projects for this year’s work day include shingling a lower section of the Tabernacle roof, cleaning Centennial Park rooms, cleaning dining hall and windows in the Hotel, raking of leaves, painting the chain fence and new picket fence and spreading gravel. Dinner will be provided. Last year we had a record turnout of 70 and if you were present last year please come again. If you weren’t present last year please join us this year. Work begins at 8:00 am.

We were pleased to provide meeting space at our office last week for a gathering of staff pastors whose focus is on follow up and connection. Excellent interchange in the group – we are blessed to be served in this vital capacity by such high-quality individuals. We even served them sushi for lunch which was celebrated by some and not so much by others:).

NOTE: Gloria and I are in Buffalo, New York this week for the General Board and related meetings. The GB is meeting in the Hyatt Regency Hotel which will serve as the location for the 2016 General Conference in June of next year. I plan to be back in the district in time for the Kingswood graduation exercises this weekend. Email, cell phone, twitter and text will all be functional. Peter will be in NS early in the week and will be fully available as needed.

THOT: “What we really are matters more than what other people think of us.” – Jawaharlal Nehru

ON SECOND THOT: “Our chief defect is that we are more given to talking about things than to doing them.” – Jawaharlal Nehru

Children’s Ministry Grand Manan Huddle

May 22 (travel to GM), May 23 Central Wesleyan  from 9 AM to noon

$10 per person. For more info or to register contact Kinda Lamos at linda.lamos@kingsvalley.ca. 

The 70th graduation exercises of Kingswood University were held over the weekend. Ed Stetzer of Lifeway Resources and Joel Cumberbatch, General Superintendent of the Caribbean General Conference were the Baccalaureate and Commencement speakers and received honourary degrees as well.  We also bid farewell to President and Mrs Gorveatte and expressed our deep appreciation for their investment in and leadership of KU. He will assume his new assignment as DS of the Indiana Central District next month.

Included in the weekend activities was the dedication and renaming of the newly renovated faculty house. Edgett Hall has been named in honour of Dean and Elizabeth Edgett who have promoted and represented the university across the years with passion and energy.  Their fund raising success has been a significant blessing to the university. 

• Kevin Myers candidated yesterday at Brazil Lake and the LBA is recommending a vote for this coming Sunday.
• Dave Rowe resigned at Houlton yesterday and will be joining the staff at Fredericton Crosspoint as Assistant Pastor. 
• Yarmouth had 530 present on Mothers Day – a plus 120 over LYA. 
• Barry Vernon will candidate at Port Maitland on May 24th.
• Bill Lea has accepted the call to pastor at Blacks Harbour. 
• Raymond Fancy has accepted the call to pastor The Wesleyan Church in Pembroke, Ontario.
• Miramichi baptized 2 and took in 5 members last week and had 120 present for a concert. 

During the General Board meeting in Buffalo, NY last week, we visited four ministry sites of our church in the city including a health clinic, a church plant, a Houghton College extension location and an inner-city church/community location. Grace Community Church is ministering in amazing ways in the community including allowing the use of our building for three other congregations to meet there – great Kingdom model for us all.

Congrats to Pastors Brad and Tracey Eisan and Ingomar Faith for being the first church of our tribe to complete the 2015 online statistical report. Thanks in advance to all of the pastors who are going to promptly follow the Ingomar example. Cheers!

THOT: “We have a God who delights in impossibilities.” – Billy Sunday

ON SECOND THOT: “Christ is either Lord of all, or He is not Lord at all.” – Hudson Taylor

Children’s Ministry Grand Manan Huddle

May 22 (travel to GM), May 23 Central Wesleyan  from 9 AM to noon

$10 per person. For more info or to register contact Kinda Lamos at linda.lamos@kingsvalley.ca. 

Only two months till Beulah 2015. It will be a great experience – Wayne Schmidt and Mark Wilson preaching/teaching; Jesus Film service with Director John Croft; special first-time Family Service; ministry outside the church celebrated; Heartland (the former Irving property) open house and dedication; Evening on the Blvd; meet new missionaries; hear the new President of Kingswood University; baptisms; Rhyno-led worship; three mystery preachers from our tribe; Maximizing Impact and Upon this Rock highlights; General Conference 2016 delegates elected and more. Don’t miss it. See YOU there.

Did you, or someone you know, attend Bethany Bible College between 1975 and 1990?  Then we are looking for you!  Whether you are a former student/spouse or employee, we want you to join us on campus for a weekend of friends, food, and fun.  Some events we’ve planned are:

Reunion Banquet * Tour of New Campus * Talent Show* and BBQ

When:  July 17-19, 2015
Where:  Kingswood University (formerly BBC)
Cost:  $85 double occupancy; $110 single occupancy   (Meals included)

Please register promptly – BEFORE May 15th.
$30 non-refundable registration fee due at time of registration.
When registering, please inform us of which meals you require and if you have any food allergies, special needs, etc.  Thank you.
Come join us for a walk down memory lane.  We would love to see you!

For more details, go to our Facebook group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/BethanyBibleCollegeReunion/  or  email us at:  carmelweirurquhart@gmail.com  

Last week I was privileged to be a part of a meeting at Houghton College under the direction of our GS Dr. Jo Anne Lyon. Those present, in addition to the GS, were all of the District Superintendents in the Northeastern Area – 9 of us in all. The time included a prayer focus; a leadership book review; reports from all of the districts; discussion of contemporary issues facing the church at large; interaction on the work of the Membership Working Group as we look to the 2016 General Conference; energizing synergy and camaraderie building.  The DS fraternity is a wonderful peer group that I have deeply enjoyed now for some 20 years.

Pastors, it’s time. Thanks if completed. Giddy-up-go if not yet completed. 

• Gloria and I worshipped at River Valley yesterday morning and Peter supplied the pulpit at Blacks Harbour. Always so pleased to rub shoulders with the tribe.
• Nelson Koonce candidated yesterday at Bakers Mills, NY.
• Kevin Myers candidated yesterday at Brazil Lake and has accepted the unanimous call of the church to serve as their pastor.
• Barry Vernon will candidate at Port Maitland next Sunday the 24th. 
• Brad and Gabby Violette will be in Yarmouth this week as they consider a staff position there. 
• Del and Melissa Heiney (KV) had a baby girl on Saturday, May 9th – welcome Avery Annemarie and congrats to the parents. 
• Thursday, May 7 during an awards banquet at the Fredericton Delta Hotel, Debbie Churchill was awarded the provincial Excellence in Nursing Education Award which recognizes the instructor who practices consistent excellence as a nursing instructor. Congratulations Debbie.
• Kentville New Hope will be celebrating their 20th birthday next Sunday – Happy Birthday!
• John and Kelsey Sherwood will be joining the staff at Crosspoint to oversee the youth ministry.
• A number of our churches have set new record average attendances for the year just ended – full list to follow when all reports are filed.  
• Beulah work day this coming Saturday the 23rd – see note below. Peter and I both will be there – hope to see many of you – starts at 8 AM. 

Halifax is a city that deals with Human Trafficking.  Recently we held a community meeting at Hillside (Parkway campus)  to raise awareness on the subject. It was in the format of a panel discussion. The panel consisted of 1 RCMP officer and 1 Halifax Regional  police officer that deal with Human Trafficking; a lady who is the PHD candidate at Dalhousie whose field of study is International Human Trafficking/child soldiers; and Robin Churchill, a member at Hillside (just retired from RCMP but also dealt with Human Trafficking).  There were 50 people in attendance.   The evening was filled with good questions from the audience. Raising awareness is the first step in finding solutions to Human Trafficking. It was very helpful.  

After circa 35 years of ministry, the difficult decision has been reached to discontinue services at Crossroads Wesleyan in Lower Sackville, NS. A special service to thank God for the difference made in people’s lives and for the faithful ministry of pastors and lay people across these years will take place on Sunday, June 14th.

During Kingswood’s recent graduation exercises, Peter Moore was one of two alumni and three graduates to be installed in the Delta Epsilon Chi honour society. Congrats to Peter on being recognized in this way – well done.

THOT: “Exegesis is to preaching what underwear is to clothing. It should be present but you shouldn’t show it off.”  – Fr. James Mallon

ON SECOND THOT: “The right word may be effective, but no word was ever as effective as a rightly timed pause.” – Mark Twain

Our annual Beulah work day is scheduled for this Saturday May 23 (with the 30th as a rain date). This is a great preparation boost for the summer season. Projects for this year’s work day include shingling a lower section of the Tabernacle roof, cleaning Centennial Park rooms, cleaning dining hall and windows in the Hotel, raking of leaves, painting the chain fence and new picket fence and spreading gravel. Dinner will be provided. Last year we had a record turnout of 70 and if you were present last year please come again. If you weren’t present last year please join us this year. Work begins at 8:00 am.

Children’s Ministry Grand Manan Huddle

May 22 (travel to GM), May 23 Central Wesleyan  from 9 AM to noon

$10 per person. For more info or to register contact Kinda Lamos at linda.lamos@kingsvalley.ca. 

Only two months till Beulah 2015. It will be a great experience – Wayne Schmidt and Mark Wilson preaching/teaching; Jesus Film service with Director John Croft; special first-time Family Service; ministry outside the church celebrated; Heartland (the former Irving property) open house and dedication; Evening on the Blvd; meet new missionaries; hear the new President of Kingswood University; baptisms; Rhyno-led worship; three mystery preachers from our tribe; Maximizing Impact and Upon this Rock highlights; General Conference 2016 delegates elected and more. Don’t miss it. See YOU there.

Did you, or someone you know, attend Bethany Bible College between 1975 and 1990?  Then we are looking for you!  Whether you are a former student/spouse or employee, we want you to join us on campus for a weekend of friends, food, and fun.  Some events we’ve planned are:

Reunion Banquet * Tour of New Campus * Talent Show* and BBQ

When:  July 17-19, 2015
Where:  Kingswood University (formerly BBC)
Cost:  $85 double occupancy; $110 single occupancy   (Meals included)

Please register promptly – BEFORE May 15th.
$30 non-refundable registration fee due at time of registration.
When registering, please inform us of which meals you require and if you have any food allergies, special needs, etc.  Thank you.
Come join us for a walk down memory lane.  We would love to see you!

For more details, go to our Facebook group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/BethanyBibleCollegeReunion/  or  email us at:  carmelweirurquhart@gmail.com  

Peter and Cathy Hayes, newly appointed Global Partners missionaries to Cambodia are in that country for a brief on-site visit at this time.  This pic came as they were enjoying iced coffee in the Russian market. “Falling in love with Cambodia” is their word.

This year at Beulah we plan to ordain five candidates: Jamie Cambers, Sharon Guptill, Tim Long and Jeremy Wurnig.  The service will be on Friday, July 10 at 10:00 AM. This is always a highlight occasion – don’t miss it. 

Last Sunday Pastor Steve DeNeff at Marion College Church offered a prayer of commissioning over Dr. and Mrs. Steve Lennox, long-time members of College Church, as they prepare to assume the duties, privileges and responsibilities of serving at Kingswood University. Dr. and Mrs. Lennox anticipate being in residence here by late June – we deeply anticipate their arrival.

Woods Harbour held a Princess Tea Party last Saturday under the direction of Amy Hockley and assisted by some of the moms.  Some 30 little princesses attended and were treated in style.

• Head of Millstream took in 2 new members yesterday, the first new members since the late 80’s. The congregation has largely been made up of seniors for some time but there is now a two-year old attending with family and two babies are on the way as well.
• Fredericton Crosspoint received an anonymous gift of $110,000 to be applied to debt reduction. “Game changer” to quote Lead Pastor Mark Brewer. 
• Mike Zottarelli, who has been solo pastor at Crossroads, will be joining the staff at Dartmouth Hillside later in the summer. 
• Kentville New Hope celebrated their 20th birthday yesterday – congratulations.  
• Peter and I had dinner on Friday evening with two reps from C to C, the church planting thrust of the Mennonite Brethren Church in Canada. Excellent interchange and real possibilities for cooperative relationship going forward – onward and upward. 
• “A great group of Children’s Ministry leaders representing 5 churches on Grand Manan attended a Children’s Ministry Huddle at Central Wesleyan on Saturday.  Thanks to Holly Cook and Pastor Steve Brown for an excellent event. Many thanks to Sandra Bartlett and Group Publishing for blessing Central with a $200 value Thailand Trek VBS kit.” – Linda Lamos

I was pleased to chair the Local Church Conference at our Miramichi church on Wednesday evening. This was the last annual meeting under the 13 year leadership of Pastor Gary Churchill. There was a strong sense of unity going forward and a sense of deep appreciation for the work of the Churchills across these years and a sense of anticipation of the ministry upcoming under the Greens. 

In spite of the cold and drizzle, more than 50 volunteers were on hand to take part in Beulah Work Day 2015. Our caretaker Bruce Cheney had things well organized and much good work was done. The day included a roast beef and ham dinner at noon to recharge all the batteries and to say thanks. To all who were present, a huge word of appreciation – together we are all stronger. 

Truro is upgrading their seating and have 21 pews available for sale. They vary in length from 13 to 22 feet, are padded on both the back and the seat. Asking $100 each (very flexible about that says Pastor Ken). They also have extra ends that would be included. Contact Ken at pastor93@ns.sympatico.ca. 

THOT: “Ignorance is always afraid of change.” – Jawaharlal Nehru

ON SECOND THOT: “Let us be a little humble; let us think that the truth may not perhaps be entirely with us.” – Jawaharlal Nehru 

Only a few weeks till Beulah 2015. It will be a great experience – Wayne Schmidt and Mark Wilson preaching/teaching; Jesus Film service with Director John Croft; special first-time Family Service; ministry outside the church celebrated; Heartland (the former Irving property) open house and dedication; Evening on the Blvd; meet new missionaries; hear the new President of Kingswood University; baptisms; Rhyno-led worship; three mystery preachers from our tribe; Maximizing Impact and Upon this Rock highlights; General Conference 2016 delegates elected and more. Don’t miss it. See YOU there.

Did you, or someone you know, attend Bethany Bible College between 1975 and 1990?  Then we are looking for you!  Whether you are a former student/spouse or employee, we want you to join us on campus for a weekend of friends, food, and fun.  Some events we’ve planned are:

Reunion Banquet * Tour of New Campus * Talent Show* and BBQ

When:  July 17-19, 2015
Where:  Kingswood University (formerly BBC)
Cost:  $85 double occupancy; $110 single occupancy   (Meals included)

Please register promptly – BEFORE May 15th.
$30 non-refundable registration fee due at time of registration.
When registering, please inform us of which meals you require and if you have any food allergies, special needs, etc.  Thank you.
Come join us for a walk down memory lane.  We would love to see you!

For more details, go to our Facebook group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/BethanyBibleCollegeReunion/  or  email us at:  carmelweirurquhart@gmail.com  

Beulah 2015 launches in just over a month from now. The focus this week is on the opening weekend. Each week will feature a Beulah 2015 lead promo item in this slot for the next 4 weeks – read on. 

Friday, July 3

A Prayer Covering service at 7 PM in the Tabernacle. Plans for camp are in place. Work has been done. Program is solid. New features will be added. Without the Master’s touch it is all just hay and stubble. Thanks for being present on Friday night as we set the spiritual tone for the camp. 

Saturday, July 4 

First meal served in the dining hall at noon.

Special Family Program, jointly sponsored by Compassion Canada and our district, in the Tab at 3 PM featuring Rodzilla. A great afternoon. Bring the kids and grandkids to this family focused afternoon. Don’t miss out.

A BBQ supper will follow at 5 PM. 

Sunday, July 5 Beulah 2015 officially begins at 10:30 AM with the singing of O Beulah Land and the ministry of Dr. Wayne Schmidt.

• Beals Island extended a unanimous call yesterday to Nick Wilson (from Indiana Central) to become their pastor. He has accepted and he and his wife Brenda will be onsite during the summer.
• Barry Vernon has accepted appointment to pastor the church at Port Maitland. While details are still to be finalized, Barry, Melissa and their children will move to Port Maitland late summer/early fall.
• Jarrett O’Donnell has accepted the Student Ministry position at Woodstock.
• Shane Grant has accepted the Director of Communication position at Moncton.
• Joey and Lauren Millington have accepted the youth (Joey) and children (Lauren) ministry positions at Kentville New Hope. 
• The tribe is being strengthened! Welcome. 
• There were baptisms at both Kings Valley locations today – PTL for new life in Christ.
• Mike Tapper has earned a Ph. D. (Historical Theology) from the University of Ottawa (Saint Paul). He successfully defended his dissertation last week and we offer deep congratulations on this very significant achievement. Congrats Dr. Mike – Dr. Tapper – we are proud!
• The Nominating Committee met by conference call last Wednesday evening. Notes will go to all nominees soon. 
• Kentville New Hope celebrated their 20th last Sunday with 247 present – onward and upward.
• Peter was at KV East and I was in Sussex yesterday – the church is alive and well.

Kingswood held their annual Golf Classic this past Saturday.  Brent Ingersoll and his team from KV had the best score – 64 which is 8 under par.  Anne MacNeill from Browns Flat led the fund-raising effort again this year.  The top three fund-raising teams earned naming rights for three scholarships to be awarded to KU students this fall.  It was a beautiful day at the golf course and over $40,000 was raised through sponsorships.

Dr. Stephen Lennox, President Elect, was on hand for the event.  We have been working on immigration details for Dr. and Mrs. Lennox and the picture above is proof that the documents were handed to Dr. Lennox.  Safe delivery of the documents was a matter of job security for Peter:) 

The district office has relocated to Beulah for the summer. We (Karrilee and HC) will be up and running today and appreciate your patience as we get up to speed and fully functional. The Beulah office phone number is 506-468-2286. Peter will essentially work out of the Moncton office for the next three weeks or so and can be contacted there. Our cell phones, email, text and twitter will be unchanged by this temporary move of course.

THOT: “Dear Christian: Make a commitment to your local church. Be a host rather than a guest. Don’t just consume. Serve. Engage. Give. Pray. Love. “ – Eugene Cho

ON SECOND THOT: “The further a society drifts from truth, the more it will hate those who speak it.” – George Orwell

Only a few weeks till Beulah 2015. It will be a great experience – Wayne Schmidt and Mark Wilson preaching/teaching; Jesus Film service with Director John Croft; special first-time Family Service; ministry outside the church celebrated; Heartland (the former Irving property) open house and dedication; Evening on the Blvd; meet new missionaries; hear the new President of Kingswood University; baptisms; Rhyno-led worship; three mystery preachers from our tribe; Maximizing Impact and Upon this Rock highlights; General Conference 2016 delegates elected and more. Don’t miss it. See YOU there.

Did you, or someone you know, attend Bethany Bible College between 1975 and 1990?  Then we are looking for you!  Whether you are a former student/spouse or employee, we want you to join us on campus for a weekend of friends, food, and fun.  Some events we’ve planned are:

Reunion Banquet * Tour of New Campus * Talent Show* and BBQ

When:  July 17-19, 2015
Where:  Kingswood University (formerly BBC)
Cost:  $85 double occupancy; $110 single occupancy   (Meals included)

Please register promptly – BEFORE May 15th.
$30 non-refundable registration fee due at time of registration.
When registering, please inform us of which meals you require and if you have any food allergies, special needs, etc.  Thank you.
Come join us for a walk down memory lane.  We would love to see you!

For more details, go to our Facebook group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/BethanyBibleCollegeReunion/  or  email us at:  carmelweirurquhart@gmail.com  

Beulah 2015 is just around the proverbial corner. Following the Friday night Prayer Covering, Saturday the 4th will be a great Family Day. Don’t miss Rodzilla – at 3 PM followed by a BBQ supper. Bring the kids and grandkids and enjoy.

 Full daily program details will be on the Beulah Camp website by the end of the week. Thanks to Andrea Gunter for putting all of this together. Will be a great camp. To use a Peter-ism, “I am atingle with anticipatory delight.”

ATTENTION – Ministers in Maine – Headquarters has arranged a Group Health Insurance Arrangement with GuideStone, a large and highly regarded organization. This is a US focused item and if you are presently serving in ministry in Maine, this is definitely worth investigating.  Go to www.wesleyan.org and you will see the GuideStone item covered in detail – check it out.

The statistical reports for the year that ended on April 30th are now essentially complete. Thanks to the pastors/churches for caring for this in a timely manner. Four of our churches have established new all-time high numbers for average attendance at their primary worship service – namely (in alpha order):

• Fredericton Corbett Avenue – 283
• Hammonds Plains Cornerstone – 290
• Kentville New Hope – 197
• Quispamsis Kings Valley – 1024

District Conference will cover the stats in detail. While there is always room for improvement, the overall trend this year is positive – onward and upward!

Congrats also to our own Dr. Duane Brown who has recently been named as Senior Director of Church Ministry with The Mission Society headquartered in Norcross, Georgia. “The Mission Society was formed as supplemental missions sending agency for the United Methodist Church on January 6, 1984. Since then, more than 500 men and women have been confirmed to serve Christ in more than 40 nations. At present, more than 200 Mission Society missionaries currently serve on the field, are in homeland ministry (furlough), or are raising their support to go out for the first time. A support staff of more than 30 people works out of our home office in the Atlanta area.” – from their website.

As you have been following IMA through these last several weeks, you have observed a high level of changes in solo and lead pastors in our tribe. The following is the overall list…

• Amherst – Evan Oxner – present pastor Raymond Fancy to Pembroke, ON
• Beals Island – Nick Wilson – present supply pastor George Woodward to retirement
• Blacks Harbour – Bill Lea – present pastor Nelson Koonce to Bakers Mills, NY
• Brazil Lake – Kevin Myers – present pastor Amy Corey seeking appointment
• Easton – Tony Stevens – present pastor Jason Coffman returning to IN
• Florenceville – Bristol – Ben Medel – present pastors Graham and Rebecca Perry to Moncton
• Havelock, NB – Glen McVicar – present pastor Jacob Ebbett to Lower Brighton
• Lower Brighton – Jacob Ebbett – present pastor Glen McVicar to Havelock, NB
• Miramichi – David Green – present pastor Gary Churchill to retirement
• North Head – Steve Bradley – supply pastor David Ingersoll to retirement (again)
• Port Maitland – Barry Vernon – present pastor Dale Robertson to secular employment
• Saint John First – Seth Fancy – elected as Lead Pastor after serving as Interim Pastor
• West Head – working with a prospective candidate – present pastor Bill Lea to Blacks Harbour.

Staff pastor changes are complete or still in process at Dartmouth Hillside, Fredericton Corbett, Fredericton Crosspoint, Hammonds Plains Cornerstone, Houlton, Kentville New Hope, Moncton, Perth-Andover, Quispamsis Kings Valley, Sussex, Woods Harbour, Yarmouth and others I may have missed. What a spring! Thanks to the Master for His help to all of us involved in navigating these waters of change. 

Peter was in Kentville New Hope over the weekend for a missions emphasis and I worshipped in Moncton where there was a baptism and 6 people stood to make a commitment to Christ. 

THOT: “I can honestly say that I was never affected by the question of success of an undertaking. If I felt it was the right thing to do, I was for it regardless of the possible outcome.” – Golda Meir

ON SECOND THOT: “You will never find a better sparring partner than adversity.” – Golda Meir 

Only a few weeks till Beulah 2015. It will be a great experience – Wayne Schmidt and Mark Wilson preaching/teaching; Jesus Film service with Director John Croft; special first-time Family Service; ministry outside the church celebrated; Heartland (the former Irving property) open house and dedication; Evening on the Blvd; meet new missionaries; hear the new President of Kingswood University; baptisms; Rhyno-led worship; three mystery preachers from our tribe; Maximizing Impact and Upon this Rock highlights; General Conference 2016 delegates elected and more. Don’t miss it. See YOU there.

Caton’s Island camp registration is open and camps are starting to fill up. Be sure and register soon!

One of the once-in-a-lifetime events at Beulah 2015 will be the dedication of and open house at Heartland – the property so generously donated to the district by Mrs. Jean Irving. The event is scheduled for Saturday, July 11th at 2 PM.

Don’t miss the special family focus afternoon on July 4 at 3 PM in the Tab followed by a BBQ at 5PM – a great afternoon for the kids and grand kids.

Pastors/Ministers – several of you have not filed your Annual Service Report – it’s time! Thanks to the many of you who have filed. If you have not done so, go to the online pastor portal or call Karrilee at the Beulah office – 506-468-2286 – for assistance. Today would be a good day…..

Gloria and I were honoured to visit with Nick and Beth at the VG in Halifax yesterday. He is doing extremely well following his liver transplant and expresses deep appreciation for the strong prayer support from the tribe. Peter as well as a number of our local area pastors have also visited and Nick and Beth are keenly aware of our love and support for them.

ATTENTION – Ministers in Maine – Headquarters has arranged a Group Health Insurance Arrangement with GuideStone, a large and highly regarded organization. This is a US focused item and if you are presently serving in ministry in Maine, this is definitely worth investigating.  Go to www.wesleyan.org and you will see the GuideStone item covered in detail – check it out.

• Peter was in St. Johns over the weekend as we continue to work toward launching the UTR – Upon This Rock – church planting thrust.
• I met with the LBA at West Head on Saturday afternoon. Very good meeting and they have issued an invitation to a pastoral candidate. Full details next week.
• I was present yesterday morning for the closing service at Crossroads Wesleyan in Lower Sackville. Pastor Mike Zottarelli did an excellent job in addressing the group. Founding Pastor Charles Bain and his wife Ruby, who served faithfully there for 19 years, were present as well as a number of people who had been part of the church across the years.
• Gloria and I also had a great visit with John and Willo AnnSymonds in Yarmouth and also stopped by Shelburne to consider next steps there. 

World Hope Canada is providing an opportunity for you to honour your father by supporting the Fish for Hope project in D.R. Congo. You can access a slide for your morning presentation, a handout for your bulletin and a promotional video here.  There is also an article you can access here.

THOT: “All spiritual revivals begin when there is a discontentment that says, “I refuse to accept this.” – Jim Cymbala

ON SECOND THOT: “You don’t make your words true by embellishing them with religious lace.” – Eugene Peterson 

Only a few weeks till Beulah 2015. It will be a great experience – Wayne Schmidt and Mark Wilson preaching/teaching; Jesus Film service with Director John Croft; special first-time Family Service; ministry outside the church celebrated; Heartland (the former Irving property) open house and dedication; Evening on the Blvd; meet new missionaries; hear the new President of Kingswood University; baptisms; Rhyno-led worship; three mystery preachers from our tribe; Maximizing Impact and Upon this Rock highlights; General Conference 2016 delegates elected and more. Don’t miss it. See YOU there.

Caton’s Island camp registration is open and camps are starting to fill up. Be sure and register soon!

One of the once-in-a-lifetime events at Beulah 2015 will be the dedication of and open house at Heartland – the property so generously donated to the district by Mrs. Jean Irving. The event is scheduled for Saturday, July 11th at 2 PM.

The copy above is a newspaper ad that will be appearing this coming Saturday. Pastors, check the Atlantic District websites for this item which can be used as a promo for July 4th.  The churches in a two-hour radius or so will be especially interested.  Great family event to help launch Beulah 2015 – BBQ to follow at 5 PM. 

• Dr. and Mrs. Steve Lennox received their Canadian work permits yesterday. Welcome to Canada!
• Doug Tatton will be candidating at West Head this coming weekend. He is concluding his ministry at Silver Lake Camp in Central Canada and we anticipate his ministry back on our district – all things being equal (whatever that actually means.)
• Ken Banks at Truro baptized 4 candidates yesterday, including his own daughter – on Father’s Day no less – very meaningful.
• Kevin Wilson announced to his congregation at Halifax Metro yesterday morning that the church will be relocating in September. They have been meeting in a school for several years and will be moving to the ScotiaBank Cineplex Theatre. This forward step is a positive move for them and was very well received and embraced by the congregation. Onward and upward.
• John Symonds baptized 11 candidates at Yarmouth yesterday morning including 3 walk ons. Great service was the word.
• Nick and Beth Graham got to have their daughters visit in Halifax over the weekend – nothing like family to lift the spirits – Happy Father’s Day Nick.
• Gary Churchill reports a concert at Miramichi with the Sky Family with 120 in attendance.
• Quote from Mark Brewer – Crosspoint “No better Sunday than when people stand to their feet for Jesus and the church goes wild! Such a great morning.”
• Denn Guptill and crew had extra seats out yesterday morning for the visit of the African Children’s Choir.

I was honoured to be the speaker at the Father’s Day service in Hartland yesterday and to talk with the dads about being “Fathers Who Aren’t in Heaven.”  While some of the plans for the day had to be altered due to heavy rain, there was an excellent spirit, good crowd and top notch BBQ as part of the morning. Good to be with Pastor Dave and Dawn.

Gloria and I joined about 50 others on Wednesday evening at a surprise 80th birthday party for Hazen Ricker. It was a very enjoyable evening and I was pleased to be one of those who brought a few remarks commending Hazen for some 6 decades of faithful service to the  Cause and to the Master. I was confident you would all enjoy this formal and dignified photo of the guest of honour:)

THOT: “The God who has been sufficient until now, should be trusted to the end.” – Charles H. Spurgeon

ON SECOND THOT: “When Jesus turned water into wine, it was a miracle. When autocorrect turned “liquid” into “liquor”, I had to meet with the deacons.” – Bad Church Secretary

Only a few weeks till Beulah 2015. It will be a great experience – Wayne Schmidt and Mark Wilson preaching/teaching; Jesus Film service with Director John Croft; special first-time Family Service; ministry outside the church celebrated; Heartland (the former Irving property) open house and dedication; Evening on the Blvd; meet new missionaries; hear the new President of Kingswood University; baptisms; Rhyno-led worship; three mystery preachers from our tribe; Maximizing Impact and Upon this Rock highlights; General Conference 2016 delegates elected and more. Don’t miss it. See YOU there.

Caton’s Island camp registration is open and camps are starting to fill up. Be sure and register soon!