CSCnews_Fall2017_WEB

CSCNEWS Celebrating God At Work Centre Street Church • Calgary, Alberta Fall 2017 AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE, AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD. I WILL GIVE THEM ONE HEART AND ONE WAY, THAT THEY MAY FEAR ME FOREVER, FOR THEIR OWN GOOD AND THE GOOD OF THEIR CHILDREN AFTER THEM. I WILL MAKE WITH THEM AN EVERLASTING COVENANT, THAT I WILL NOT TURN AWAY FROM DOING GOOD TO THEM. AND I WILL PUT THE FEAR OF ME IN THEIR HEARTS, THAT THEY MAY NOT TURN FROM ME. - JEREMIAH 32:38-40 – INSIDE cschurch.ca Stampede BBQ 12 Family Life 5 6 Encounter God’s Presence N.O.W. 22 18 16 CSCamps Many Stories, One Mission

Walking on Water and Soaring on INTRODUCING PEOPLE TO JESUS AND HELPING THEM BECOME FULLY DEVOTED FOLLOWERS OF JESUS. Senior Pastor Dr. Henry Schorr Central Campus Saturday 6:30 pm Eagles Wings Sunday 9:00 am, 11:00 am, 6:00 pm. Children’s Mininstry provided for all services except Sunday 6:00 pm. 3900-2nd Street NE, Calgary, AB T2E 9C1 BY TESSA LITTLEJOHN, Tel: 403.293.3900 Fax: 403.520.2698 Contributing Writer Lead Pastor: Pastor Kent Priebe What happens when you take an artist who loves North West Campus Sunday 9:30 am. Jesus and throw in a lot of adventure? You get Crowfoot Crossing Theatre some amazing stories and pictures of what God is (91 Crowfoot Terrace NW) up to in the world, and it is awesome! Lead Pastor: Dr. Lawson Brown Nicole grew up in a family that loved God. She knew about God, but it wasn’t until she was Bridgeland Campus Sunday 10:45 am. a young adult that she grew to know God and His Gateway Church (235 - 8A Street NE) unlimited love for her and for others. She describes Lead Pastor: Rev. Tim Hayes it like living in colour after only knowing black and white. After finishing her degree with ACAD, Nicole South Campus Sunday 10:30 am. had the opportunity to travel around the world for St. Mary’s University (14500 Bannister Road SE) Lead Pastor: Rev. Wayne Smele (interim) one year, volunteering with humanitarian organi- zations in over 16 countries. At one point she was on a seven-day trek up Airdrie Campus Sunday 10:30 am. the Himalayan foothills to bring much-request- Airdrie Koinonia Christian School ed Bibles to the most remote Nepalese villages, (77 Gateway Drive NE, Airdrie AB) Nicole Wolf has a talent and passion for art and an along with a group of local Nepalese. When they Lead Pastor: Pastor Travis Wilkins reached a village, they asked the villagers to bring even greater passion for Jesus. Photo from Nicole Wolf them anyone who was sick so Jesus would heal them. And Jesus did! CSC News is Published by the Communications Department of CSC There was one grandmother with many health “There’s a world out there that’s problems. She had been up on the mountain making sacrifices and when she came to Nicole’s cschurch.ca desperate for intimacy, for love, team, they asked her “What is hurting?” “My head- ache, my heart problems, my knees, elbows, my back hurts…” for being seen up close and “We prayed and she was immediately healed,” Please visit cschurch.ca for our current staff directory. CSC is a member of the Evangelical Missionary Church of Canada. Nicole says. “Unblinkingly, she asked for more not through the eyes of a news prayer.” “My cough, my eyes,” Grandma said. agency. We, the children of God, Nicole and her team prayed and the grand- ma’s cough went away. But she still couldn’t see. Arian Schorr Managing Editor So Nicole prayed again, sitting in the dust with Vidette Heller & Elsa Henderson Copy Editor/Proofreader are the answer to that need.” her with the crowd gathered around. There didn’t Jen Airhart Graphic Design/Layout seem to be a change, but Nicole didn’t feel like it was over. Contributing Writers in this Issue “May I draw your portrait?” Nicole asked. “I want to remember you.” Kelsey Ginther Laurie Griffin Lori Klaus Tessa Littlejohn Anny McLean Janet Seever The grandma nodded and squatted in front of Nicole. Nicole says, “It felt a little silly to just draw a picture of someone who wasn’t healed. Why would you want to remember that? But in the moment, it made sense. I felt like my work was done. I’d asked my Contributing Photographers in this Issue Father for a gift of healing for her, so now I just needed to wait and see what He did.” Michelle Bonnier Bowors Family Colin Brown When the drawing was finished, Nicole turned her sketchbook around and handed it to her. The Burtis Family Capital Campaign Team Andrew Fewell grandma held it for a moment, and then poked it with her forefinger grunting, “Eyes. Nose. Mouth.” Encounter God’s Presence Team Tracey Fox Brian Harris Riley Kirwan McLean Family MacDonald Family She could see her own face, and for the first time since Nicole met her, she smiled—a big gummy Chloe Pilon Elmer Riegel Shelly Sylvester smile! Nick Simonsen Tara Whittaker Nicole Wolf “Let me clear away any delusions you have about me. I’m not any stronger, more qualified or more special than anyone else; not in the eyes of God. I bleed, cry, doubt, complain, fumble and learn like CSC News welcomes comments and feedback on all editions of this everyone else. We are not extraordinary people. Miracles and manifestations of God’s power don’t newspaper. Please email: [email protected] happen through us because of anything we do. It’s entirely because of who God is,” explains Nicole. The next assignment was three months in an overcrowded Syrian refugee camp in Greece. There 2 csc news • fall 2017 ...continued on page 3

Walking on Water... ..continued from page 2 incredible collection of voices to paint, draw and speak were bi-weekly race riots and boatloads of people arriv- about God’s goodness! No wonder the enemy has tried BAPTISM ing everyday in a camp already four times over capacity, to divide us. These artists are the ones who will change leading to shortages of blankets, water, etc. the world.” But who did Nicole find there? Jesus. Recently one of Nicole’s friends told her that she had Testimonies - May 2017 “I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I been at a house party and one of the girls there was was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a reading C.S. Lewis. When asked about it, she said that Central Campus stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you she had given her life to Jesus three days before, after clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in being a hardcore atheist. When asked what led her to prison and you came to visit me, because whatever you do that, she replied, “There’s this girl I never met, who did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of travelled the world because she just really loves Jesus. I mine, you did for me.” read all her blogs and all her Instagram posts. I decided TAYLOR BACH (as shared As Nicole says of this experience, she met Jesus, “and I needed to meet this Jesus. And He revealed Himself to by Gail Kirwan) - Taylor has He wears a hijab.” Nicole recalls one very poignant conver- me!’” been seeking acceptance sation with a young man in the refugee camp. Asked who the girl on Instagram was, the girl said, and peace for years. Ten “ ‘You’re a Christian, right?’ a refugee had asked, point- “Nicole Wolf!” years ago, we met and ing at me. Then he continued, ‘Well, ISIS would kill me be- Nicole says, “I felt so humbled in that moment. I’d have been attending fore they killed you because I’m a Shiite Muslim, and ISIS is been feeling like I didn’t have a voice, that I didn’t have churches throughout the Sunni Muslim. It’s Muslims killing Muslims.’ Then he paused much to give. And then God made sure I saw how He city. Taylor has embraced and said, ‘But you Christians are different. You help every- uses even the smallest things. the Christian belief, and one in this refugee camp, the people who lost their tents in So this is my mission right now: to speak, to share and the fire and also those who burned down the tents.’ Then to be Jesus with skin on.” since we found CSC a year ago he looked sideways at us and said, ‘There are far too many she has found her place, her peace, her acceptance. Christians working in this refugee camp. I get to know She has found Jesus and embraces her belief in more of you every day and you are all Christians.’ Then he Christianity and has given herself to Christ. laughed and said, ‘And that’s a really good thing.’” So what is the point of all this? “There’s a world out there that’s desperate for intima- JULIET BIANGOS - I cy, for love, for being seen up close and not through the first came to know Christ eyes of a news agency. We, the children of God, are the when I was about 12- answer to that need. Get out!” Nicole encourages. “Go 13 years old. I went to places where the water is higher than your head. Jesus will Catholic school, and teach you to walk on it. Go to the places where there are no roads for your feet. Jesus will teach you to fly on eagles’ learned about God as wings.” Creator, Lord and Saviour. Now that Nicole is back, the groups have changed, but I did not go deeper through her heart hasn’t. studying the scriptures or learn “My heart goes out to artists, creative minds, the cre- how important it is to prepare for ative young people in the arts community that are jaded eternity and live a godly life. My first year in I met Donat at the church, angry at God, hurt by Christians,” she says. who introduced me to CSC. After a year, we joined a “They believe that everything they stand for—freedom of small group and had weekly Bible study. I learned expression, honesty, exploration, beauty and asking ques- about God’s Word and started to have daily quiet time, tions—is directly opposed by the church. I know this be- reading Bible passages. Things began to change, as cause I’ve been one of them. Five years of post-secondary I continued to grow in Christ and learn His will. I went art school changes what you see. But I know this view is shaped by only looking at the church. This view sounds like through a very difficult time, as I lost two babies due how I felt when I didn’t know Jesus. Jesus, the Father and to miscarriage. I do not know why God allows these particularly the Holy Spirit are all about freedom, honesty, things to happen, but He is a Great Comforter and He taste-and-see-that-I-am-good, beauty and creativity. If only is in control. I surrendered everything to God. When they could meet Him like I did. We would have the most all I could see was darkness, He showed me the light. God works all things together for good and He wants a relationship with me. I want to be baptized to follow Jesus for the rest of my life no matter what. ABEL EAGLESPEAKER I attended CSC for two years and I accepted Jesus into my heart. I want to testify today that Jesus is my Lord and Saviour. I want to be baptized to make my relationship with God better and closer and in obedience to Jesus, testify His change in my life. Left: The illustration of the Grandma in Nepal. Above: Nicole ...continued on page 9 has shared her passion and creativity at the monthly Night Of Worship at CSC. Photos from Nicole Wolf, Chloe Pilon, and Tara Whittaker 3 changed lives - changing lives

Blessed Beyond Belief Over the next few weeks, we went from appointment a missions organization and in our community. We had a to appointment. Life was so hard. The physical pain was new desire to bless others and be involved in people’s lives. great; the mental and the spiritual pain were agony. I We wanted to be about His work. We had come to learn cried out several times a day, “How long, oh Lord, will you that His timing is best, and we are not to force His hand. He forget me?” is never late; we are to trust His timing and will. During this time we were told the miscarriage had That month, after five months, I became pregnant! We not been complete. Days later, I began to hemorrhage. I were so stunned that it took weeks to sink in. I endured the was taken by ambulance to Rockyview Medical Centre hardest pregnancy I had ever experienced, but all I felt was and was admitted to the emergency room. At one point, gratitude for the child growing within me. At a 19-week ul- I started to grow faint, and I became scared as the medi- trasound we discovered that not only was our baby perfect cal team filled the room and began to work on me. Dur- but also a girl! Praise the Lord for His faithfulness. Every time ing this time I was given a blood transfusion. I struggled, I turned to Him and I felt Him say, “My grace is I could not understand why all this was happening. sufficient, my strength is made perfect in weakness.” All I prayed was that I would keep consciousness and, of I relished in the small things of pregnancy-perspective course, alive. had made me so thankful and grateful for the small and Meanwhile a nurse made an urgent call to my hus- big things. Our baby moved constantly, and it was such band, who was waiting for someone to be with our kids. a wonderful reminder of God’s hand in all of this. I had As he rushed to the hospital, he was praying for my life. two big falls during the end of the pregnancy and a large He had no idea what was happening as he drove over, amount of stress with our rental property being up for sale but cried out to God to save the life of his wife. and my daughter starting grade one. God assured me This encounter made a profound change in my hus- nothing would come my way that I could not handle when band. He became wonderfully aware of the things of I was leaning on His strength. God and His voice. He began to thirst for the things of He had taken me from trying to be self-sufficient to be- God, and together we began to seek out His presence ing fully dependent on him. He had and is still doing a and His word in a deeper way. It was a wonderful time deep work within both our hearts and lives. born out of such brokenness and despair. God is so On September 30th our daughter joined our family. BY ANNY MCLEAN, good that He could use the broken, the challenge, the What a joyous day! My labour, although short, was hard, Contributing Writer despair, the pain and turn it into something wonderful. but what a wonderful moment to finally meet her! When I recovered, and we were given the green light to try Grant and I had a moment alone, we dedicated her to the In March 2014, I finally stopped running away from God. I again to have another baby. I never had had problems Lord and felt blessed beyond belief. had been in closer relationship with God in the past, but at getting pregnant, but this time times anger boiled up inside me and I resisted being in a it took much longer. As each closer walk with Him. After I heard Him calling me to attend month dragged on, the Lord counseling, I entered into a process that would change dug deeper, and we became the course of my life. more broken, more submitted, At the time, we had a three-month-old baby, a 21-month- more willing to do things His old and 4-year-old. I was busy! And tired! My husband had way. just been diagnosed with celiac disease, and my life was By December, I was de- feeling chaotic transitioning our family over to a complete- stroyed. I cried easily and often. I ly new diet and way of life. I often felt overwhelmed. As my prayed constantly; life was hard husband talked to me about another child, I felt fear to to live. I felt pain I had never have more but still desired to have another daughter. known. But I became an empty Counseling helped me focus on the Lord’s will for me. vessel ready to be used by God. He wanted me to be whole. He wanted me to repent and The Lord worked on both our walk away from sin. He wanted me to give Him control of lives, and we grew closer and my life. He wanted to be Master and Saviour of my life. closer in our marriage. In the midst of this very raw journey, I felt the Lord tug- During this time the Lord ging at me to pray more. I invited my husband to join with gave me a name—Evelyn Faith. me, and together one Friday night we sought after the He spoke to me through scrip- Lord. I didn’t think much about it until two days later dur- ture. He wanted me to trust His ing a worship service when the Lord showed me a vision voice and trust the words He of the next steps Grant and I were to take. That had never told me—that He is good, faith- happened before! ful and true. Still, no pregnancy. Over the course of the past year, we had discussions Evelyn means “child wished for” on and off about whether to try to have another baby, but I and Faith represented the faith had such a great amount of fear. Instantly the Lord showed we had to put not in man, not in me not to fear another change in our family. The Lord laid ourselves, but in the Most High. out three steps we were to take, and as we stepped out in I was thankful for the promise, obedience, we felt the Lord give us the go ahead. I was and I treasured the words in pregnant very soon after! Praise the Lord! my heart. But waiting on God Our bliss, however, was short lived. During a routine ul- is hard! trasound, we discovered that the baby we thought was liv- By January a peace had ing had passed away a month earlier. I remember driving finally come and we became home and saying with tears pouring down my face, “Yet I content to let the Lord have His will still praise you.” way fully. We were serving within Anny, and her husband Grant snuggle in with their baby girl; With a big sister, Olivia and two big brothers, Oscar and Edison to look out for her, Evelyn will be well cared for; A bright and 4 csc news • fall 2017 beautiful baby, Evelyn Grace. Photos by Mclean Family

Painting by Deanna Oelke May 5-7, 2017 Encounter God’s Presence Weekend May 5-7, 2017, had 62 participants who escaped their normal routines for two and a half days. They were given the tools to gain freedom in their lives as they heard Biblical teaching on the Holy Spirit, their true identity as Jesus sees them, and how to live in a life of continual intimacy with God. Throughout the weekend they participated in anointed worship and practiced hearing the voice of God. People were set free from occult entanglements, harmful attitudes and behaviours, emotional wounds, destructive memories, generational bondages, entangling and enticing sins. People were healed from physi- cal ailments such as kidney pain, shoulder pain, knee injuries, fibroids, plantar fasciitis and neck pain. Others learned and practiced honest Biblical forgiveness for those who had hurt them. Each participant publicly declared what they were leaving behind and what Jesus had given them instead so they could continue to walk in freedom. “ Taught me to pinpoint lies of Satan, sins, repent, accept the truth of God and forgiveness. ” “ I came feeling judgmental and with some shame. I left feeling more free, embracing more fully who I am in Christ. It was refreshing and soul quenching. ” “ The event renewed my spirit with God and re-guaranteed my identity in Him. God bless all the staff and volunteers who were involved in the weekend. ” “ To spend a solid amount of time immersed in God’s presence and being able to walk along- side others was incredibly renewing, providing me with peace and excitement for what God has planned for me. ” “ This weekend has allowed me to ‘let go’ of the things from the past that have held me down. Now I know I’m His precious child and Jesus is with me as I walk into my bright future. ” “ Gave me a chance to work through and be free of any remaining issues I have had come up since Freedom Session. I have been renewed with greater understanding of the purpose Jesus has for me. ” 5 Participants at Encounter God’s Presence had opportunties to pray, study scripture and worship together as they found freedom from strongholds in their lives. Photos by Encounter God Team changed lives - changing lives

PURPOSE: For all of CSC to gather together under one roof to praise and worship Jesus and celebrate what He is doing among us. WHAT WE DO: Lots of worship in song, testimonies, stories, art, the Word being preached and responding in baptisms and declarations of faith. HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE COMING: Approximately 1500 people each month. NOW! Is a powerful worship gathering – it’s rare that my husband and I miss one! As we sang songs of the awesome power of Jesus and who He is, I felt an infusion of His power and the revelation that I have the power of the resurrected Christ within me – the Son of the Most High God – the King of Kings lives in me! I have known this for a very long time, but the jolt of revelation of the power of that was overwhelming. It also came with the realization that I needed to walk in that power – in everyday life and particularly in my prayer life. I had immediate opportunity to put this into practice when I happened upon a gal who needed prayer and I was able to share with her: “The resurrected Christ lives in you!, the power of Christ Jesus courses through your veins! You have victory!” Our God is an awesome God… - By Shari Scott N.O.W. in May and June included baptisms, a blessing for the grade 12 graduates, prayer for the Young Adults Missions team, spoken word by Val Lieske, 6 csc news • fall 2017 Crossings dance troupe, great music and excellent messages from Pastor Henry. Photos by various photographers

N.O.W. in July kicked off with some great food trucks in the parking lot, followed by great music, worship, baptisms, a testimony from Louis Formaz, and spoken word by Kyle Close. Photos by various photographers 7 changed lives - changing lives

Broadcasting His Praises says Timothy. Having the same heart and passion in broad- casting, their relationship grew, and the two of them were married on August 20, 2016. Coming to Centre Street in a Blizzard How did they start attending Centre Street Church? In 2013 Abigail came to a Christmas concert in the middle of a blizzard. She was working at the Shine FM radio station af- ter graduating from university when a co-worker invited her to the Christmas concert in which she was participating. Another co-worker was going to accompany Abigail to the concert, but something came up and she cancelled, so Abigail bravely came alone. “I was wondering if I was in the right place, and then the Christmas concert started,” she says. “Because I grad- uated in broadcasting, the first things I noticed were the cameras at the church, and I was watching the screen. I was just mesmerized by the video production, and I also love drama. I didn’t know that the drama was part of it as well. I wish I could remember what the message was, but for some reason that night, God spoke to me very clearly and it felt like a little whisper saying, ‘This is where I want you to serve.’” The dating couple was church-hopping at the time, looking for a home church. After the Christmas concert, Abigail told Timothy, “We should try CSC first because they have cameras.” When she brought Timothy there, he had the same re- action. Right after that first visit there together, they looked at each other and said, “I think this is the church.” Timothy recalls, “The first or second weekend that I came to CSC, there was something in Pastor Henry’s ser- mon that really, really moved me. At the end there was a call to the altar. And that’s what got me to fully accept Christ into my life. Something pushed me to say, ‘This is the day.’ It got to the point where the feeling in my heart was Timothy and Abigail MacDonald’s love of broadcasting brought them together and allows them to use their gifts in ministry. too overwhelming.” Photo from the MacDonald Family Timothy was curious to know what God was all about. Besides what he had learned through The Purpose Driven BY JANET SEEVER, Timothy and Abigail met when they were both major- Life and the sermon that day, Timothy points to two other Contributing Writer ing in broadcasting at Mount Royal. Since it was a small factors that drew him to the Lord. One of the factors was program, they always had classes together. music. He was introduced to a Christian rapper called Lec- Lights! Camera! Action! They got to know each other in their first year when they rae. “I love music and as I listened to the words he would When Timothy and Abigail MacDonald first came to Cen- had their own radio shows. They listened to each other’s rap, I would say, ‘That’s deep.’” tre Street Church in 2013, they were excited to see the radio shows, started working on projects together, and got The other factor was his brother who is in the American camera equipment in use. Broadcasting is a passion for close that way. army. (His father is American.) Timothy didn’t see his broth- them, since they are both graduates of the broadcasting At one time, Abigail was questioning the Lord on wheth- er very much because he is 13 years older and was always program at Mount Royal University. As part of the live video er studying broadcasting team at Centre Street since April 2014, they have found a was the right program for place where they can both use their skills in broadcasting her. She was reading The and can serve the Lord in this way. Purpose Driven Life by Rick “It’s volunteering,” says Timothy, “but at the same time Warren at that time, and it’s being in community with people who have the same was on Chapter 30, which passion as we have.” is entitled, “Shaped for Serv- ing.” In the subtitle it quoted Meeting at Mount Royal Isaiah 43:21 (NJB): “The Abigail grew up in Manila and moved to Calgary with her people I have shaped for parents and younger brother when she was 14. What a myself will broadcast my shock it was to come from a tropical country and arrive in praises.” She was sitting in the middle of winter! a cubicle in the library and She missed the Philippines greatly at first because of looked at this verse over her involvement in youth ministry back home. Her mom and over again. “OK, I guess introduced her to Christ when she was nine, and she ac- I’ll stay in this program.” cepted the Lord as her personal Lord and Saviour. Abigail later shared The Timothy lived in the same Calgary house his whole life Purpose Driven Life with until he got married. His brother and sister are 13 and 10 Timothy, and they studied years older than he is. it together after both had “I was raised Catholic by my parents,” he says. “I drifted graduated. away a bit when I kind of lost meaning in the church. I was Things fell into place. there, but I didn’t know why.” “I think it was God’s hand. He connected us together,” Matching Diplomas from MRU. Photo from the MacDonald Family 8 csc news • fall 2017

serving in the United States or overseas. “My brother started off as this rebellious ‘do your own thing’ person,” Timothy re- members, “and now he’s one of the most godly men I know. So I kind of look at him BAPTISM as a role model.” Testimonies - May 2017 Excitement in Looking Forward Advocates for Compassion, the MacDonalds are supporting children in the Central Campus Philippines through Compassion Canada. In February 2018, they are planning to go on a missions trip and hope to connect with one of their sponsored chil- dren. Abigail has relatives in the Philippines whom they plan to visit as well. “I’m hoping that while we are there we can do some actual volunteer work at churches,” says Timothy, “so I can experience that for myself. I’m really excited about this because I’ve never been over an ocean.” BART HAMPTON - I accepted Jesus as my Saviour in 1999. In In thinking about the future, they have some big goals where their passions 2001, I was diagnosed with cancer and doctors gave me two years to lie—to make videos and show that there are better things for people in poverty. live. After my initial chemotherapy treatments, I relapsed and required “I always felt that broadcasting was a calling for me,” says Abigail, “and in sharing more treatment. In 2009, cancer was back and my only hope was it with Tim, he affirmed it. We decided to work together even before we were married. a stem cell transplant. After two months in hospital, I was told the [Our goal] is being able to share God’s Word and God’s love through videos and transplant had failed and I was going to die. Lying in my hospital through life experiences now that we are a married couple.” bed, I rededicated my life to Jesus. I prayed for His help and that if He They want to reach out to young couples who are dating, engaged or married saw fit, to spare my life. I began to improve, and almost 16 years after my who might be watching their videos. initial diagnosis, I am alive! It has not always been easy. In 2011 doctors in the “We also want to pursue simplicity,” continues Abigail. “If we ever start this video ministry that we are planning, that would be the core of it—to pursue simplicity. Hap- Intensive Care Unit once again gave us no hope, but the amazing power of prayer made piness can’t be found in material things. Joy can be found only in Christ.” a difference. There have been more relapses, but through it all, I have known and felt the presence, power and peace of Jesus. I started coming to CSC with my wife. I am here today because of the grace of Jesus. I know God has a plan for my life. My purpose on earth has not been completed. Every day is a gift from God. I want to be baptized to signify publically my commitment, obedience and love for Jesus. DONAT HEMMI - My sister and I grew up in a Catholic home in Switzerland, went to church on Sundays and prayed at the dinner table, but that was all. We did not have any Bibles in the home. I made plans to live in an English-speaking country to broaden my horizon. The plan was to apply for a temporary visa and come back after expiration with a wealth of knowledge and new experiences. I did not know what God had in store for me. My first 14 months in Canada, I stayed with a lovely couple, Ernie and Ruth Dutchak, who introduced me to their House Church at CSC. I started going to this church regularly and volunteering in the Tech Ministry at CSC. Ernie gave me a gift, which changed my life forever - my first Bible. A few months ago, I started attending a small group. Even though I was a non-believer at that time, the Holy Spirit continued to stir up my heart again and again. I learned about salvation and its importance. One night, I felt warfare going on inside of me. I repented of all my sins, declared the Lord as my Saviour and gave my life to Jesus. I am standing here today to be baptized in obedience to the Lord! ZACHARIAS HOGEWONING - I was born in Holland and went to a Christian school at a young age. Because I had to learn about Christianity, it was not my personal choice and my heart was never committed to Christ. Growing up as a teenager and adult was never in line with faith. Thanks to my son, I was introduced to church at his own baptism and I felt the desire to come to CSC. Along the way, I attended the Alpha Group with my leader Dave. I came to the Men’s Ministries breakfasts and made some good friends there. I felt closer to God. It was then I asked Jesus Christ into my heart. I want to be baptized today to show God my love and dedication to Him. I want to show to my family my faith in Jesus Christ. And with God’s grace, it is never too late to start a new life and to be an example for my family. MARJORIE JAIKARAN My niece gave birth to a premature baby of 25 weeks along. With Ana Maria, CSC Pastors and others, we prayed. Today, that baby has reached five years old. Thank you Jesus! Baptism to me is following Jesus to the Father. ...continued on page 15 Timothy and Abigail’s engagement and wedding. Photo from the MacDonald Family 9 changed lives - changing lives

Living with the Father’s Heart marked a new beginning for them, and they an end. There were changes in the church that arrived at the church as a couple planning to required a shift in Randy’s role, which would have adopt. taken him out of his calling to children and fami- “Right from the beginning, the church was lies. This led Randy to consider a new opportuni- engaged and invested in our adoption,” Cara ty: the position of Central Campus Grade School remembers. Randy and Cara were amazed to Pastor at Centre Street Church. In 2012 he ac- find that there was a significant number of exist- cepted the role, and the Burtis family moved to ing members of the congregation who were ad- Calgary. Initially, Randy and Cara’s focus was on rais- opted or grew up in foster care. They spent seven CSC STAFF church.” to know Christ and follow Him, while Cara was years there, launching an adoption ministry that ing their girls in community and connecting to drew families from all over the region and earn- the life and ministry of Centre Street Church. Randy’s greatest joy was seeing children come ing the church a reputation as the “adoption blessed by abiding in God through the Holy Cara says that before she and Randy even Spirit and felt that this enabled her to reach out met, “Our kids were planted in our hearts.” They began the adoption process while and impact those around her. While raising Katie they were in Grande Prairie and it was a long and Julia, who were just 14 months apart in age, Cara would invite neighbours over to build rela- but worthwhile journey. Randy’s affinity for Asian tionships with their families by sharing a Christ- culture led them to consider Asian countries like love. for their first adoption, and China in particular Being in Calgary has presented the Burtis tugged at Randy’s father heart because of the lack of value often placed on female children their gifts but their hobbies and interests as well. there. While their adoption from China was in Cara was able to teach a class in the Women process, they also decided to adopt from the family with many opportunities to use not only Randy and Cara Burtis with their daughters Katie and Julia. Photos from the Burtis Family United States. Cara had worked in the southern of Heart community called “Art as Worship,” in states where she connected with African-Amer- which she saw students grow and change by BY KELSEY GINTHER, ican culture, so they commenced an adop- expressing worship through mediums such as Contributing Writer tion from South Carolina. This adoption took 10 art journaling. Meanwhile, Randy continues to months and finished first, blessing them with Ka- use his talent and vast experience in the art of Before Randy Burtis ever imagined himself as a pastor or a father, God was tie, their oldest daughter. It took five years before illusion to do magic shows in all kinds of places, calling him to ministry with children. He grew up in a non-Christian home they were matched with their second blessing, including camps and churches. Together, they in Calgary as an only child, but his life shifted when his mother became a their daughter Julia, from China. bring this creativity to their family time to make Christian. The young family entered a period of transi- fun memories with the girls. “Seeing the change that happened in my mom’s life gave great cred- tion when their time in Grande Prairie came to More recently, Cara and Randy have stepped ibility to the gospel,” he explains, and this prompted him to invite Jesus into ...continued on page 11 his life as well. His mother continued to have a strong influence on his faith, helping him move from pursuing knowledge to seeing and knowing Jesus as the source of truth and wisdom. Only six months after he began attending church, Ran- dy heard God ask him to serve. He obediently followed by starting to teach Sunday school. Here he found that working with children was a wonderful match for his innate gifts and passions, and he soon felt God’s call to trans- late those strengths into a job in ministry. When Cara Burtis looks back at her life, she can see how her early experi- ences prepared her for children and family ministry opportunities later on. The eldest of three girls, she grew up outside of Edmonton and became a Christian at a young age. God used a difficult season in her teens to bring Cara closer to Him and into a greater understanding of His personal love. Out of this shift she decided to join YWAM; and after her training with them, she spent four years on staff working with expectant mothers in crisis in New Or- leans and Texas. In this time, God began to show her His heart, not only for the children there, but also for the mothers. Cara recognized the great courage and sacrifice it took for them to place their children up for adoption, and God drew on her compassionate and relational heart to allow her to connect with these women and hear their stories. Both Randy and Cara had a sense that they would be caring for kids who were not their own in the future, albeit in different ways. The idea of adoption came to Cara early on, but it would not be realized until much later. The spark of this came about when Cara was pursuing a Master’s degree at seminary and met Randy, who was pastoring at a Vietnamese church in Calgary. They were married in 2002 and moved to Winnipeg where Randy took an Associ- ate Pastor role and they began life together. It was while they were on their way to a new opportunity – a Family Min- istry Pastor role in Grande Prairie – that Randy and Cara decided that they were ready to grow their family through adoption. Driving past the town sign 10 csc news • fall 2017

Father’s Heart... ..continued from page 10 into leadership of the Foster Care & Adoption ministry Spiritual Transformation through at Centre Street Church. Having experienced adoption first-hand, they are well equipped to walk alongside families who are interested in or living out foster care Encountering and adoption. Their ministry meets once a month as a community group to instruct and encourage these families, providing camaraderie and support for those God’s Presence who find it difficult to meet others in the same situation. she didn’t know there was more to experience than the A primary focus of their ministry is to provide train- one-way conversations she had with Him. Todd had a ing and resources to parents. In May Randy champi- desire to develop a deeper relationship with the Lord— oned this by working with Centre Street to host the To- he just didn’t know how. gether for Adoption Canada conference organized by The answers would soon break through to them. Focus on the Family. Another one of the initiatives Cara God would turn Todd and Reagan’s world upside down and Randy took on was to lead a nine-week Empow- and reveal Himself in a life-changing way. In November er to Connect course, which specifically focused on of 2014, He used the Encounter God Weekend to do it! training for parents whose children have gone through Encounter God, which is offered by CSC three times traumatic situations like divorce or abuse. each year, is a focused time of anointed worship and While they are still fully invested in the Foster Care prayer, Biblical teaching and growing in faith along- & Adoption ministry, Randy and Cara feel that they side others. Mature believers help participants identify are also moving into a season of ministering in differ- issues in their lives that have become strongholds—is- ent and deeper ways to families in the Grade School sues over which the Lord wants to give His people victo- community. They are passionate about helping fami- ry. Understanding and receiving God’s forgiveness are lies serve and experience faith together and seek to key teachings designed to break old bondages and provide opportunities to facilitate this. The goal, Randy bring spiritual renewal and freedom in Christ. As believ- shares, is to “equip families to impress faith on their kids ers, Jesus promises us His healing presence and longs and build a deeper sense of community.” CSC STAFF for us to encounter and experience Him in meaningful Randy and Cara also delight in the ability to dis- ways. He desires for us to live victoriously, but in order to ciple their own family and spend time together. They do this, we must first understand who we are in Christ. describe their daughters Katie (8) and Julia (7) as Todd and Reagan Bowors. Photo from the Bowors Family That’s what Encounter God is all about. “beautiful, spirited kids who love the Lord,” and appre- Reagan says her life has never been the same since. ciate the friendship between the two of them. The girls “I was set free from many destructive attitudes, be- attend Heritage Christian Academy and love visiting haviours and sins—many things that were holding me the zoo, coming to Randy’s magic shows and enjoy- BY LORI KLAUS, back from a deep relationship with my Heavenly Father.” ing fun “themed” dinners at home. Cara and Randy Contributing Writer The couple say that many things can prevent us from make a concerted effort to pursue simplicity in their fully experiencing Christ and surrendering to Him com- parenting, and they find that keeping life from getting If you were to ask Todd or Reagan Bowors when their faith pletely. It can be coziness and complacency in our “too too busy allows for natural play and happy children. truly began to come alive, they would both say Novem- safe” lives. It can be fear of the unknown. It can be lies and ber of 2014! Prior to that, Todd, who works at CSC in the tech de- In all of their pursuits, partment, felt there had to be more to a relationship with We don’t have to wait until the God than what he was experiencing; and Reagan de- Randy and Cara do their scribed herself as a “Sunday Christian.” enemy’s final defeat to live in victory. Having been raised in a Christian home and brought up in a Bible-believing church, Todd was saved at a All the power of Jesus, and all His best to work as a team. young age and had plenty of “head knowledge” about God, but that knowledge hadn’t fully moved to his heart. grace and forgiveness, is available Although God has created Reagan, on the other hand, didn’t have much exposure to us now! When we understand our to the gospel growing up. Though she attended a French immersion Catholic school in the Saskatchewan town them each uniquely and she was raised in, her family rarely went to church; and true identity—sons and daughters Reagan admits she didn’t take God seriously. She knew called them to many who He was and would say she believed in Him, but it of the King—we no longer accept wasn’t a relationship. “In early 2004,” says Reagan, “I met a co-worker who counterfeits in our lives. different areas of service, was a Christ-follower, and he began to talk to me about God. I was interested in what he had to say and how the times when they come he described it as a relationship and not a religion. We deception from the enemy. That kind of spiritual warfare is would spend hours late into the evening talking about something that the couple has learned more about—the God. Every time we did this, I felt the Holy Spirit’s presence; reality of a spiritual realm which is unseen to us but where together emerge into what but at the time, I didn’t know what it was. He eventually real battles take place every day. The enemy never wants bought me a Bible and invited me to attend his church. non-believers to come to know Christ’s power to save and Randy calls “a beautiful That summer I gave my life to Christ. I am so very thank- redeem, and he wants those who are Christians to be ren- ful God brought this co-worker into my life. We have now dered ineffective through bondage to his lies. been married for ten years!” “The only authority Satan has is what we give Him,” says rhythm.” For both of them, The Lord blessed Todd and Reagan with three terrific Todd. boys—now ages nine, seven and five—and prior to 2014, “I thought happiness equaled a high paying career, living with the Father heart life was moving along for them as it does for most. Things big house, nice car and extra money to go on vacation were “normal,” and the couple went through the daily and buy more stuff,” says Reagan. “Christ came in and filled motions of life and parenting. Reagan loved God, but that void where I was trying to put all my stuff. I found that of God is their priority. ...continued on page 13 11 changed lives - changing lives

MAY - AUGUST 2017 Birth Announcements Weddings NAME DATE PARENTS Varun Kumar and Suzanne George Kara Jonelle AuYeung February 6, 2017 Jon & Louise AuYeung May 20, 2017 Waverly Mia Harrison June 26, 2017 Jared & Alexis Harrison Wilf Schlitt and Irene Friesen May 22, 2017 Emmanuel Eleko and Pamela Agada May 27, 2017 Dedications Steve Griffen and Colette Lyons New June 3, 2017 Joshua Asuncion Balba June 10, 2017 Dario Lucente Mila Victoria Herba June 10, 2017 Members Eric Werboweski and Jennifer Thiessen Jothi Manoharan June 3, 2017 Abigail Grace Gehring Ogston June 10, 2017 Doug Andersen Pamela Marleau Jaydon Huffman and Catherine Cooper Caelan Darryl Reginald Power June 10, 2017 Penny Andersen Faron Muncey June 8, 2017 Nevaeh Sophie Iyana Cacapit June 10, 2017 Destiny Busch Marci Muncey Joshua Jacob and Danae Northcott Zachary Radder June 10, 2017 Leighton Busch Cherilyn Pastor June 10, 2017 David Peters July 16, 2017 Abel Dizon Alisha Premanand Austin Ratz and Hannah Ireland Abigail Joy Holterman July 28, 2017 Carol Dizon Caroline Premanand June 18, 2017 Liam Michael Schorr August 27, 2017 Alex Herba Rachel Scott Christopher Rollins and Fayola Nurse July 8, 2017 Jacob David Doner August 27, 2017 Karen Herba Corinne Thomas Dimitrius Froese and Anna Rathgeber Zaydon Joshua Henry Schorr August 27, 2017 Geogy Joseph Shawn Wenham July 14, 2017 Haedyn Lee Harrison August 27, 2017 Wendell Klassen Moses Yu Adam Ball and Danielle Morton Maddux Robert Harrison August 27, 2017 August 6, 2017 Anthony Morvillo and Candice Dreher August 12, 2017 Jadon Weibe and Natasha Schult August 14, 2017 Christopher Owens and Veronica Baez August 19, 2017 Jadon Wiebe and Natasha Schult August 20, 2017 Duffin Zayonce and Amanda Ritchi August 25, 2017 Terry Gallant and Faith Albani August 25, 2017 Steven Krentz and Melanie Bewic August 26, 2017 Vuthy Mao and Sara Dask August 26, 2017 Renewal of Vows Jimmy Taing and Pamela Lin August 19, 2017 12 csc news • fall 2017

Spiritual Transformation... ..continued from page 11 true joy can come only from God. After I gave my life to was a lost restaurant gift certificate that suddenly reap- seeking. I learned that I could hear His voice for myself and Christ, He filled me and gave me so much joy and con- peared when food was needed or a credit that showed for others. The entire trajectory of my life has been changed tentment that I didn’t need stuff or the praises of others to up on the telephone bill when there were more charges in every aspect—family, career and friends.” make me happy. There is no going back, only forward with than money. Those are only a few examples of many “I now understand intimately my relationship with the God. I have discovered my true identity! He gives me the times the Lord has come through in incredible ways for Trinity, that God is for me, and my identity is in Him,” says strength to do things that I never thought I could do. It is Todd and Reagan! Rather than circumstances testing Reagan. “I am still on fire for God. He is the driving force always worth it to be obedient to what God calls you to do, their faith, Reagan says that now, “Faith tests the circum- behind everything I do. I love how He continues to show me no matter how terrifying it seems.” stances.” Praise the Lord, no circumstance is ever too dif- that He can do exceedingly, abundantly more than I could That is something the Bowors have seen played out ficult for the Sovereign Lord! ever ask or imagine. GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME ... ALL THE time and time again since trusting God fully in all aspects “My testimony,” says Reagan, “has given me a strong TIME, GOD IS GOOD!” of their lives. passion to see people walk in freedom. As a result, I serve “Finances have always been difficult for us,” says Todd. on the Encounter God Team. One of the gifts God has When bills need to be paid and groceries need to be given me allows me to bless people through prophetic bought and there aren’t sufficient funds to cover those words, which I do at Concerts of Prayer, as well as any- things, let alone any extra, something like tithing can seem time I feel God leading me.” Todd and Reagan impossible. also lead a prophetic class and desire to start their own As they’ve stepped out in faith, however, miracle upon Missional Community, something that is already in the miracle has taken place and the family’s needs have al- works. In addition to these new ways God is using them, ways been provided for. There was a cheque for some He also opened up the opportunity and privilege for respite care Reagan had provided which showed up in Todd and Reagan to be caregivers to Tyler, a wonder- the Bower’s mailbox the day after the form was submitted! ful young man with special needs who now lives in their Somehow the agency had processed and approved it, home and has become part of the family. issued the cheque, mailed it out, and Canada Post had Todd and Reagan strongly encourage everyone to delivered it—all in less than 24 hours! It was an impossibility take part in an Encounter God Weekend for themselves. by human standards—but not impossible for God! There The transformation can be amazing! have been funds that mysteriously showed up in an en- Todd shares, “I moved from knowing about God to Todd and Reagan Bowors have three terrific sons (L-R: Jaden, velope, untraceable, right when they were needed. There having that personal relationship I had always been Ethan, Isaac). Photo from the Bowors Family MAY - AUGUST 2017 In Remembrance Ryan Prisne May 2 Mary ‘Marie’ Tiede May 9 Pearl Lavina Anderson May 13 Maureen Nelson May 27 Emmaline Benjaminson June 5 Ivan Christian Juul-Hansen June 11 Baptisms Sharon Copeland Koh Hyeung Erik Slyker Elaine Lois Whitaker June 25 Robert ‘Bob’ Bedard June 26 Jacob Cuke Errol Smith Micah Irvine* Abel Eaglespeaker Sandra Jacome Cesar Colli Solis Ronald Lee Nolan July 1 Roslyn Abraham Lauryn Francisco Kaytlynn Soroka Penny Andersen Orlando Galan Marjorie Jaikaran Linda Stevens William Vandenberg July 5 Taylor Bach Patricia Garner Wade Kulchisky Maria Taylor Kelly Spicer July 5 Juliet Biangos Ruifang (Amy) Gu Erik Labonte Susan Troy Connie Shuya July 19 Vanessa Bissonnette Bart Hampton Amor Patron Martinez Kayla Troy Robert ‘Bob’ Mitchell July 21 Noah Braaten Donat Hemmi Enrique Martinez Hazel Ugalino Glenn Harder July 24 Paul Braaten Jr.* Diana Hertz Kendra McCargar* Rob Vanoverdyk Chinnamma Joseph July 25 Nathan John Bravo* Kirk Mackenzie Hilario* Connie Mohler Miriam Wakhisi Verena Gould July 28 Paul Caddel Kim Hillier Colton Oakes Eddie Wang Sophia Campbell** Scott Hillier Alexander Oakes** Jill Wilson Ronald ‘Scotty’ Thomson July 29 Dallas Campbell Zacharias Hogewoning Kimberley Okafor** Damian Wolf** Grant Barker August 2 Tanya Chan Siobhan Hogg Cheryl Sienna Powers Jared Yee** Movel Louisa Mills August 11 Dominic Choi** Jeffrey Horbay Bejamin Quaye Rachel Yee** Lawrence Sipe August 14 Cyrus Chu Paula Hull Estrella Quintero Rodney Zielke Elaine Rhebergen August 24 Jason Clements Trevor Rygus Troy Hunter Kate Scott Alyssa Zimmer* Ron Stoppard August 25 13 changed lives - changing lives

Andrew Fewell’s life was forever changed when he realized only God could fill the emptiness he felt inside. Now he shares his story and God’s hope on the streets of Calgary. Photos from Andrew Fewell Never Lose Hope things in his life. “I had seen his life authentically changed through Christ,” says Andrew. “He had been through some of the same experiences I had. He always claimed that Jesus was the one who transformed his life, so I reached out to him.” “He brought me to Centre Street Church. I felt this im- BY JANET SEEVER, Changed Life mense joy as soon as I walked into the building. I had a Contributing writer In 2007, Andrew was in BC at a rave called Shambala smile on my face that I hadn’t had in months.” with a group of friends. Their motto was “work hard, play David met with Andrew every week for many years for Andrew Fewell has known both the highs and lows of life. hard.” They partied for days, and when Andrew came Bible study. “He played a very integral part of discipling me After living a life he would recommend to no one, Jesus home, he felt absolutely empty. They had experienced early in my faith,” says Andrew. “Four months before I spent has changed his life. Today his greatest joy is sharing the carbon monoxide poisoning and had their fill of drugs six and a half months in jail, I accepted the Lord on my gospel with others who are just as lost as he once was. and alcohol. own in my room. Within the first week I started having a “I got home and knew I needed a change,” recalls conviction to not do some things I used to do. The Holy Spir- Headed in the Wrong Direction Andrew. “The things that were filling me before—like it was at work. I’m still on a huge sanctification process—a Growing up in Calgary, Andrew experienced the emotion- money, women and partying—were not filling that void. I work in progress.” al hardship of coming from a broken home. His parents just became emptier and emptier. So I really cried out to David’s mother-in-law gave Andrew a small Gideon divorced when he was very young. Although it was a hard God sincerely with my heart. And God heard me.” Bible and witnessed to him. He remembers carrying that time for him and his family, he does have some fond mem- Gideon Bible around with him, reading it everywhere. Later ories of times with family and friends. With conviction in his voice, he purchased a Bible of his own. School was a different story. He was bullied. To protect The Lord helped him to clean up his life, and he went himself, he found a group in school that was feared by back to school to get a university education—something others. Andrew says, “God took me that seemed like a pipe dream for most of his life. But God “No one would mess around with them,” Andrew re- provided. He went to SAIT and the University of Lethbridge, members, “so when I was in junior high and high school, I from being a career criminal, earning a Bachelor of Management degree. He now works did my best to get in with them. I thought I would be pro- fulltime in the area of business and logistics. tected, but instead I was exposed to a lot of things—like partying all the time and taking Nowadays, he often goes witnessing on the streets of drugs and alcohol.” These friends got into trouble with the downtown Calgary. When asked if he ever sees people law and led Andrew on a path that was headed in the advantage of others, and He just from his former life, he responded, “When I’m witnessing, wrong direction. the Lord brings them into my path. They say, ‘Look at you, Andrew graduated from high school in 2000. After that, transformed my life.” your life has changed. What’s going on here?’ They see a his parents, now remarried to other people, gave him the difference. That’s time for me to tell them about Jesus and choice of working or going to university. He chose work the transforming power of God—how He took me from be- and was involved in selling drugs for quite a number of God lined up all of the right people Andrew needed ing involved in criminal activity, partying all the time and years. to meet. One fellow, David, had gone through similar taking advantage of others, and He changed my life.” 14 csc news • fall 2017

Andrew finds that when he’s faithful in little things, he gets opportu- nities to share with others. Recently, a man who attends his Bible study BAPTISM - Testimonies accepted the Lord in his kitchen. Andrew and his friend had been talk- ing to him about the gospel. Then his friend asked the man if he wanted to accept the Lord, which he did. May 2017 - Central Campus It reminds him of the verse 1 Corinthians 3:6 (KJV): “I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.” Wise Advice When asked if he had any suggestions for teens going through strug- gles like he did, Andrew responded: “Never lose hope. And just keep your eyes on Jesus; keep surrendering to Him. Cry out to Him. He wants MARIA TAYLOR - Four years ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer. you to be transparent with Him with all your pain, struggles, joys, dreams, It was a very difficult time in my life. Today I am cancer free and decided sadness. He wants to hear it all. Just pour it out to Him.” to change my life. On Saturday February 13, 2016, I got on the bus to Later, after thinking about the question for a while, he added, “Christ head home for two weeks of vacation. Ana Maria also got on. She told is the answer. Surround yourself with Christian community. Join a weekly me that she was going to Bible study and invited me to come. We stayed Bible study. Read your Bible, pray, have a relationship with God. Attend for the service at CSC, and afterwards Ana Maria wanted me to meet church. Use the gifts God has given you. It’s just these simple things Pastor Henry. That evening I prayed to receive Jesus and my journey with that you continually do—obeying, loving God, loving other people and Him began. I have taken courses (Why Believe?, One-on-One Discipleship & never giving up.” Alpha), attended small groups, Anchored Hope, Prayer for the Persecuted Church Andrew has attended Centre Street Church for about ten years, and has been involved in leadership positions in a few different ministries. and Healing Prayer. It has been a fabulous year. I have learned so much and want more. I One of them, called the CORE ministry, involves the young professional have decided to be a follower of Jesus and be baptized like He was. demographic. CORE hosts weekly Bible studies throughout the city and provides opportunities to teach and share about Christ. Another min- istry that Andrew is involved in is called Fishers of Men. They minister in different parts of the city, preaching and sharing testimonies, feeding the homeless and handing out Bibles. BAPTISM - Testimonies - Airdrie Campus Andrew now has a good relationship with all of his family, when at one point in his life they were very distant. “That is a huge answer to prayer that my family is back in my life,” he says. In reflecting back on his life, Andrew says, “The cool thing about go- ing through struggles in life is that God uses those struggles to help BONNIE PECK (Airdrie Campus) - My journey began from a teenager, other people.” who thought school was overrated, to a young mom. Baby number one came, then a marriage, then baby number two, bankruptcy and divorce. Then my first time job, to meeting the love of my life, to baby number three, to adoption and marriage. Then came lost jobs and friendships, to almost a lost home. I am here to tell you that through this journey God never gave up on me. I know my Heavenly Father loves me and I am ready to live my life for Him. BAPTISM - Testimonies - Summer 2017 EDDIE WANG - I was raised as a non-believer. I had a great childhood, both my parents were hardworking, gave me guidance, encouragement and support in all my facets of my life. I met my wife Misha, in 2013. As we started dating, she invited me to go to CSC, and my initial reaction to the worship service was surprise at seeing people standing up and singing songs about God. In January 2015, we talked about getting married and moving in together. Misha wanted us to attend Missional Community (MC) at Pastor Henry’s, so we did. We learned about the “Why Believe?” series and met some great friends in the discussion group. It was an eye-opening experience because this was the first time I began learning about Christianity. Misha and I got married in March 2015, continued to go to MC and church regularly. I became more appreciative of worship, sermons and the new things I was learning. Christmas and Easter had new meaning, not just another holiday in the year. In 2016, we attended MC on the book of James. It felt like I had support in my spiritual journey outside of just church, we were “living life.” I started reading the Gospels and felt ready to accept Jesus as Saviour and invite Him in my life. I am ready to get baptized and to be born again with Jesus in my life, as my Lord and Saviour. 15 changed lives - changing lives

Many stories. One mission. Centre Street Church is one church with many locations. We are all one family that gathers in different communities. This means we have one mis- sion… bringing people to Jesus and helping them become fully devoted followers. See how God has been moving across all five locations where people gather to worship, hear God’s word, build community and deepen their faith and walk with Jesus. NW Campus Meet husband and wife Matt and Sharla, volunteers in NW Youth Ministry and Tech Airdrie Campus setup Sharla Boody: Began attending summer 2013 after being invited to lead Young Adults ministry at NW Campus “Over my four years here, God has challenged me to grow in my understanding of who He is and my purpose. I have found NW Campus to be like a small family. There are some families here who have had an open-door policy with me and have allowed me deeper access into their lives. The friendship and closeness with these families has given me opportunity for greater access to the youth and other young adults I serve at NW Campus. Also, Matt and I both had the opportunity to be huddled, which means to be intentionally discipled in a small group. We solidi- fied spiritual patterns in our lives such as time with Jesus, reading the Word and learning how to share the gospel. We also focused on how to balance up in and out our relationship with God, our community of believers and the larger commu- North West Campus nity in our workplaces, families and friend groups who don’t know Jesus.” Matthew Boody: Began attending in winter 2014 Central Campus “Over my three years at NW Campus, I met Jesus, was baptized, experienced heal- ing through discipleship, made new friendships and shared my life with youth, families, and other young adults. I have relied on the encouragement and prayer from people at NW Campus during times when my character defects were being Bridgeland Campus exposed and refined. I have also been challenged to grow and learn more about Jesus as I have been given opportunities to serve and lead here. God has been gracious and compassionate to me and has used NW Campus to show me what it is like to live a life modeled after Jesus.” Bridgeland Campus Meet Hyanjoon Shin, piano player on worship team at Bridgeland: Began attending in November 2016 “I was new to the country and nervous to attend Bridgeland. Once I attended, that changed completely. Jared was warm and thoughtful and soon many people from the church were helping me adjust to life in Canada. I could feel the love of Jesus from them. I used to play piano at church back in Korea. But I started to hate it and I quit. I believe I was also experiencing struggles with my faith. After joining South Campus Bridgeland Campus, I started to pray again. Soon I felt God calling me to serve Him once again through worship. I’ve joined the worship team here and am loving it. Now, because of the people at Bridgeland I have adjusted to living in a foreign country and I’m feeling a closer relationship with the Lord.” Meet Paul Lau, worship lead at Bridgeland Campus: Began attending in 2012 “Ten years ago we moved to Calgary to be closer to my father who was diagnosed with cancer for the second time and it didn’t look good. Both Andrea and I gave up our jobs and stability in Toronto. We also stepped down from worship and lead- ership positions at our home church. Coming to Calgary meant we would start from the bottom up but we came by faith. It was difficult, but family came first and God was faithful. My father came into remission despite the odds not being in his favour. God has led us into stable artist and musical careers and into a larger com- munity of believers at CSC. Bridgeland Campus has a wonderful hometown feeling in a large city. Everyone knows your name! The people are Jesus-loving folks who are seeking community and want relationships with one another!” Left to Right across pgs 16 & 17: Worship team at Bridgeland Campus; Matt & Sharla, volunteers at NW Campus; Baptism at the South Campus; New Canadian Friendship Centre volunteers at Cental Campus. Photos from Andrew Fewell 16 csc news • fall 2017

Airdrie Campus to CSC he was quite shy. Now when he participates in Youth Group, he is making friends and blossoming into a confident person.” Meet Ryan and Brittney Brooks, Children’s Ministry and Prayer Ministry co-leaders: Began attending in August 2015 Meet Nicole Rhodes, Children’s Ministry volunteer and CSC summer intern: Began at- Ryan Brooks tending in 2013 “As I have been serving in Children’s Ministry, I have been blessed by the oppor- “Since I became a part of South Campus, God started doing big things in my tunity to teach and help them know the God I love. When I get to freely worship in life. I was part of the original church that became South Campus (Connection front of the kids and see them raise their hands and lift their voices, I know that the Christian Fellowship) and I wasn’t getting very involved in ministry. When came to same Spirit that resides in me is surrounding them also. When I hear kids ask pro- South Campus, I had a strong desire to work with children. I believe that God gave found questions about God, it brings me joy to know they are listening and I can me the gift of wanting to disciple children in their journey with Him and volunteer- answer their questions. We once had a family that we invited for lunch after church ing in Children’s Ministry helped me discover this passion. Last summer I felt God and during that time, we got to see them interact with their own children, asking prompting me to get baptized. Many kids saw me declare my faith, and I know this them questions about church and Sunday school. That was a powerful moment had an impact on them. Later, one of the moms told me her two sons were playing for us. We had not seen that kind of interaction modelled for us before. This is the and baptizing their Lego figurines. God showed me how I can have an impact on importance of modeling a Christ-filled life between believers.” children that are developing their faith. They watch to see what their teachers do and want to imitate them. I also became an intern nine weeks ago, and I can see Brittney Brooks how God is doing great things in me and South Campus!” “At this point in my walk, church is not an ‘experience’, but a place to serve, grow and spur others on as well as be challenged. I have been encouraged in my spirit Central Campus to press into prayer in order to see breakthrough within our congregation at Airdrie Campus. These opportunities solidified for me the greatness of God and the unde- Meet Jan Wilkinson, volunteer with NCFC ESL and Sewing Ministry: Began attending niable power of prayer. Being able to co-lead our Prayer Ministry team has blessed 15 years ago. me in ways I am still trying to understand and grasp. I feel that God has new plans “I got involved with CSC when my children were teenagers. You just walk in and set ahead for the spiritual development and prayer life specifically for our children the ambience and kindness of everyone is amazing. Four years ago I had been at this Campus.” working at a call centre and it was killing my soul. I was afraid to give up my stable job and go back to school, but I felt that God was calling me to do something Meet Lyndon and Skye, Airdrie Campus attendees: Began attending October 2016 more. God answered my prayers and opened doors for me to attend the Global “We needed more than a Sunday morning experience. We wanted to live on mis- Studies program at Rocky Mountain College taught by Pastors Wayne Smele and sion and we found a like-minded community at Airdrie Campus. This is a com- Brad Friesen. After completing the program, I was excited to focus this second munity that rejoices with those who rejoice and mourns with those who mourn. part of my life serving God and His children. The New Canadian Friendship Centre Both 2016 and 2017 had many ups and downs. In March I tore my rotator cuff and (NCFC) opened and I volunteered in this ministry. I’ve been thrilled to serve as an had to take three months off work. We relied on God, and He was faithful through ESL teacher ever since. I believe I’m exactly where God wants me. I have devel- prayers and donations of the congregation. Just as I was ready to go back to work, oped many relationships with all the people we serve. I’m still learning how to be a I broke my jaw with a baseball bat in a freak accident. After having reconstructive more effective evangelist, and this is my area of growth and challenge. I see God facial surgery, I woke up in the hospital singing ‘How great is our God.’ After chatting working every day in our amazing volunteers touching hearts for Jesus.” with my Christian nurse, I noticed the patient in the bed next to me was smirking. We started to talk. In my heart I felt the Lord tell me to pray for him. This man gave Meet Alice Esau volunteer with NCFC: Began attending seven years ago his life to Jesus right there in the recovery room. I now know why I had to be in that “When my husband passed away, I was grieving and wondered what I was going hospital. It was worth breaking my jaw even for that one soul!” to do with my life. I did a trip to Africa and after returning to Canada I knew I had to be involved in ministry. I began asking God to show me where I could serve. I South Campus heard about The New Canadian Friendship Centre at church and loved the idea of being once again involved with newcomers to Canada. Serving in the cafe in Meet Kim and Scott Hillier, South Campus attendees: Began attending in 2012 Temple, the first location of the NCFC, was a wonderful fit for me. It was where I Scott Hillier could meet new friends from all over the world. I remember one day meeting two “We were married late in life and I had been baptized in a different church with monks from Tibet, a newcomer from Iran and a family from Mexico. What an amaz- different beliefs and teachings about Jesus. A friend brought us to CSC. You can ing learning experience for me! Where else can one learn about and share Jesus tell Pastor Henry is in love with Jesus and teaches right from the Bible. It’s not his with a Buddhist, a Muslim and a Catholic all in the same day? I love showing God’s words; it’s Jesus speaking through him. We just needed that grounding. That was love to the visitors to the NCFC because I understand how much God loves me. I so important to me because I needed to understand the truth. We started going to long for them to know that love as well.” Bible study and we both attended the “Encounter God”weekend after Kim finished Freedom Session. I now know that I’m truly a child of God, and I needed to really put that in my heart and never let go of it.” CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR OUR CHURCH These stories hardly scratch the surface of what God is doing here at Centre Street Kim Hillier Church. Being in different locations has allowed us to reach further and deeper into “We began attending South Campus because we wanted a sense of community communities across Calgary and Airdrie. We encourage you to pray as a church that our and family. We like that it is a Spirit-filled community with a lot of joy. People are not physical and spiritual presence throughout the city and beyond continues to change afraid to dance during worship, sing at the top of their lungs, or say ‘praise Jesus’ lives and hearts for Christ. during conversation. Also, we have a 17-year-old son and when we started going 17 changed lives - changing lives

Love Your Neighbour Stampede BBQ 2017 Stampede season is a time of pancake breakfasts and out-of-town visitors. For CSC it has also come to be as- sociated with our annual Neighbourhood BBQ. In 2014 our Central Campus team felt a growing conviction that we needed to love and care for those living and work- ing right outside our building, just as we serve those who come to us. That idea blossomed into the Stampede BBQ, an outreach event that we hosted for the fourth time this July. Prior to the BBQ, teams of staff hand-delivered invita- tions to the businesses and partners around us, a per- sonal touch that was noted and appreciated by those who attended. This also gave us a chance to connect with individuals who needed God’s presence in their day. Two of our staff members met a woman who had previously come to the BBQ. She could not come this year due to difficult family circumstances, but they were able to pray with her. Another business mentioned that they had just been talking about CSC as a place they were going to recommend to some of their employees who were experiencing struggles in life. A large group of staff and volunteers came together to serve at this year’s event. They did everything from set- up and food service to hosting, greeting, and leading building tours. The CSC Food Services team catered for ...continued on page 19 18 csc news • fall 2017

Love Your Neighbour... ..continued from page 18 an estimated 450 or more attendees! Many of those were returning from previous years and thanked us for reach- ing out to the community. They appreciated our kindness and the conversations that occurred. This year we were also able to partner with the #notinmycity campaign. Our volunteers wore scarves and facilitated discussions as ambassadors for this movement against human traf- ficking in Calgary. There were many opportunities to introduce our guests to CSC and our mission. Those who won Café gift cards as door prizes were excited about coming back to CSC during the week or on the weekend. Sev- eral attendees were interested in bringing their families to our services and our Children’s Ministry. Throughout the lunch, some of our staff members were able to share their testimonies with their table, provide New Testaments and Why Jesus booklets, and pray for individuals. Others had conversations with attendees about deeper spiri- tual topics that allowed them to encourage them, share scripture, and tell them about Christ. We also saw the fruit of previous encounters with in- dividuals who came. Some were familiar with our event and brought others with them, while others knew about CSC and were excited to talk to us and have a chance to return to our services and events. One of our CSC dis- cipleship groups had been ministering to a man who attended with his family and one of his employees. They were able to tour the building and let us know that they were coming to church the following Sunday. As we continue to host this annual event, we are so thankful that God is faithful in bringing to us those who need Him most. They hear from God as He provides the right opportunities for us to serve them. Please continue to pray for all who came, wherever they are at in their journey, that they will be touched by Jesus and come to know Him as their personal Saviour and Lord. more photos on page 20 19 changed lives - changing lives

Love Your Neighbour... ..continued from page 19 The 2017 Stampede BBQ at Central Campus was a huge success. Over 450 people were fed and we are so greatful for the incrediblae volunteers who helped us set up, serve and clean-up. The bottom right photo above shows our amazing team of summer interns. Photos by Chloe Pilon BOARD OF GOVERNORS – MICHELLE BONNIER God’s Leading...God’s Timing...God’s Purposes BY LORI KLAUS, life had been spared for a reason and God had a spe- Contributing Writer cial plan and purpose for her future. With this revelation, Michelle made the decision to give her heart to Jesus! In ancient Greek, the word “Kairos” refers to an opportu- Her family moved to Calgary the following year and nity, season or fitting time. Michelle Bonnier says her life her faith continued to grow. She says, though, that it was can be divided into several such Kairos moments—times a “child-like faith” in the sense that she lived in a Christian when God brought people and circumstances together bubble. in such a way that new revelation and life-change took “My next big Kairos moment,” says Michelle, “was when place! I underwent my first of two major surgeries at age 16 and For Michelle, who grew up the middle child in a Chris- then again at age 18. My parents—and mom particularly, tian home in Edmonton, the frightening events surround- as a nurse—had been advocating for me for years to find ing her coming to faith were her first “Kairos.” In May of help to manage a rare condition I had been born with. 1992, when Michelle was just six years old, she woke one Before the surgery, I really started to contemplate my faith morning unable to move her legs. The previous evening, and decided I wanted to get baptized before my surgery. she had kept falling as she was playing, but everyone So just after my 16th birthday, I was baptized in the Silver assumed she was simply being silly. Her terrified parents Springs swimming pool. I really worked to focus on trusting took her to the hospital, where her condition continued God both before and throughout my recovery.” to deteriorate to the point of complete quadriplegia. Up to that point, Michelle says her faith had been quite The doctors did not know why this was happening, and easy. Always very shy and introverted, she had little interac- Michelle’s parents were warned that she may not have tion with kids her own age, which meant no outside pres- much longer to live if they could not find and treat the sure coming against her and no need to question every- problem. Her mother, holding Michelle in the hospital thing she had been taught. That changed, however, after bed and stroking her hair, made a startling discovery. her surgeries. Though they both went well, they came with There was a bump on her head, previously unnoticed, years of rehabilitation and medical management. A lot of which turned out to be a wood tick. In cases where her schoolwork, therefore, was done at home and resulted they are not removed, these ticks can cause ascend- in her graduating a semester early. This launched Michelle ing paralysis and eventual death. By God’s grace, Mi- into the world. After working briefly as a full-time nanny, she decided Michelle holds a baby during a mission trip to Peru chelle made a full recovery and regained control of her to attend the French faculty at the University of Alberta and limbs once again. Michelle’s parents taught her that her Photo from Michelle Bonnier 20 csc news • fall 2017 ...continued on page 21

Michelle Bonnier... ..continued from page 20 this world can give. It also always reminds me, when I recognizing that God has placed me where I am at today complete her teaching degree in French. return, that my mission field is just as much at home as it and I live that day to the full.” “Everyone had always pushed me to be a teacher since is when I go abroad. You don’t have to go to the remote “Secondly, I look forward. In the last few months, God I loved kids, so as usual, I didn’t question it. But then at uni- places of the world to live a life on mission!” has spoken to me about His promises for me and my fu- versity, I realized I needed to start questioning some things. It’s a viewpoint that was strengthened after returning ture. As I’ve read stories in the Bible, God’s promises to His University life in Edmonton certainly tested my faith. I had from a second trip to Israel in 2014 and being invited to a people resonated with me. He has led me to three verses believed ‘just because’ for so long, and now I had some Missional Community back home in Calgary. The group that I hold to: real opposition to face. I can’t say I was swayed by much, meets together regularly, and in the context of friendship Jeremiah 31:3 – ‘I have loved you with an everlasting but it certainly was a time when I called into question why I and ‘doing life’ together, they explore God’s missional love.’ believed what I believed.” purposes and grow in their understanding of what that Hebrews 13:5 – ‘Never will I leave you, never will I forsake Several challenges after her second university year led looks like in their own day-to-day lives. you.’ Michelle to the decision to move back to Calgary, and this “I still love the idea of going away on short-term mis- Jeremiah 29:11 – ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ was another important time when she felt unquestionable sions, but I began to long for what was happening in declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm trust in God’s plan. Leaving Edmonton, she says, was her Calgary and seeing my city and my work as my own you, plans to give you a hope and a future.’” third Kairos. Though she faced a lot of opposition leaving mission field. I began to contemplate discipleship and “I was once a sick kid, and I found complete healing her schooling in French, she felt incredible peace about the importance of relationships. I shifted how I saw my in my Saviour. I was once a scared and lonely teenager coming home. It set her on a much different course—one job and began to take bolder steps to share my faith and I found complete surrender and comfort in my Heav- God has blessed richly but has only illuminated one step with others at work.” enly Father. I was once an adventurous young adult and I at a time! This group held another huge blessing for Michelle. found the joy, peace and love of a relationship with Jesus. After completing a biology degree by distance while Through it, she found the community she had yearned I am now an adult ... and I know I am more deeply rooted again working as a nanny, and after visiting her sister over- to connect with for so many years but had struggled to in God’s presence each day as He fulfills His plan in me!” seas and travelling around Australia for a year, Michelle de- find! cided to enroll in the fast-track nursing program at University “They are a family to me. I am finding that I have Michelle’s Service on CSC’s Board of Governor’s of Calgary. more depth to my relationship with God, and I do think “I currently serve as a Board member, and as Chair of “I wish I could say I leaned on God for guidance in this the people He has brought into my life have fortified me the Human Resources and Compensation committee. I decision, but I decided to go into nursing for many practical in that.” am humbled to serve on both, and to further support our and logical reasons. Looking back now, I can see how even God has definitely been at work in incredible ways church with the leadership gifts and experience God has when I was not as faithful, God was still at work in my life in Michelle’s life, but as with all of us, she says, “I am still given me. What a blessing to hear how God is actively at and has been able to use my choice of career for His glory.” a work in progress.” When it comes to her struggles, she work at CSC! I’ve found that over the year and a half I’ve As Michelle began serving in her new field of nursing, says, “What is crucial is not to define your life by society’s served on the Board, one of my most crucial roles as a and as she also began venturing out and trying to connect standards, but rather by God’s standards. I renew my Board member is a prayer warrior, seeking God’s will in all with Christian community, God was preparing her fourth trust in the Lord’s plan daily. Some days I still fail and feel decisions. We’ve faced some challenging times in the last Kairos—one of the most meaningful ones of her life. It came discouraged and lonely, but I’m finding comfort in two year, but I know God’s goodness and grace from personal in the form of baptism in the Jordan River on a trip to Israel ways. Firstly, I look backwards. God has brought me to an experience. I know that He loves the church, His bride, and that Pastor Henry led in May of 2012! incredible place, for which I am so grateful. I have a ca- that as long as we continue to look to Him, seek Him and Though she had taken this step of obedience previous- reer in nursing that I enjoy, a strong faith and a wonderful follow His will, God will bless our church. What an honour to ly, Michelle says she signed up to be baptised in the Jordan family. I have travelled and had the opportunity to serve be a part of that!” “because it was just cool to be able to say you’ve been Him in incredible ways around the world. I live each day baptized in the Jordan!” The morning of the baptisms, Mi- chelle began jotting down some notes on what she wanted to say during her testimony. “I had gotten up at 4:00 am to watch the sunrise on the Sea of Galilee. All of a sudden my testimony—growing up in a Christian home, always being faithful for the most part, loving Christ and giving my heart to Him at a young age—didn’t seem enough. It started to bother me. I wanted this baptism to mean something more. I prayed about it and sensed God calling me to live my life so much more wholly for Him. While I had been a good little Christian girl my whole life, I had never had to make my faith my own. For me, at that time, I thought one way I could do this was by doing short-term missions in nursing.” Michelle says that from that moment, everything changed. She left Israel renewed and full of hope that her life was going to be different. She was more intentional about prayer and Bible reading and also began speak- ing more with her family and friends about her beliefs. Six months after she returned from Israel, she went on her first medical missions trip to Peru. She travelled to Rwanda the following year, and most recently, through CSC, she took a non-medical trip abroad and was able to meet, encourage and pray for ministry partners and believers who are facing great persecution for their faith. “It’s been such a privilege to serve God abroad,” says Michelle. Missions trips can certainly grow your faith. Even on my medical trips where you are providing a tangible service to people, I’ve grown more than I feel I’ve given. It makes you grateful for what God has given you back home, particularly in the face of profound poverty. And when you pray and encourage and hear the stories of those you Michelle using her nurses’ training on a mission trip to Peru; meet, you also see how God provides, how desperately He Michelle and her family (L-R David, Guy, Lydia, Michelle, and Sarah); loves us and how He desires so much more for us than what Baptism in the Jordan River. Photos from Michelle Bonnier 21 changed lives - changing lives

Our CSCamp, Maker Fun Factory, was an incredible week. Factory, Bible Discovery, KidVid Cinema, and Game Mak- With over 250 campers and 70 volunteers, it was a huge ers. Campers were split into groups of five to encourage success! Campers explored how they were made by fellowship and community. Each afternoon the campers God and built for a purpose! Each day, kids learned Bible went on field trips—to Chinook Bowladrome, Shakers Fun Points—that God is for them, God is always with them, and Centre, and the Calgary Zoo. God will always love them. They also learned how God Our volunteers were able to make good connections made them, and that God made them for a reason. with their groups. It was incredible to see the kids bond While many children had been to camp in previous well with their leaders. It was moments like this that our years, many were there for the first time, having been in- volunteers most liked. They were glad to know that they vited by friends or neighbours. This was their first time in were making a difference in the lives of their kids. church, and they had a really great time! Camp served as an opportunity for Faith Talks at Camp began with worship. The songs were high-ener- home, as even junior leaders would go home to ask their gy, fun to sing and easy to memorize. How incredible to parents questions about God’s love. We were overjoyed see the kids singing their hearts out! After worship they that by the end of the week, 28 children made first-time transitioned into a large group teaching time on that day’s decisions to accept Jesus as their Saviour and Friend Bible Point. Then, these Bible Points were illustrated through forever. What an incredible investment this week was! It a series of morning stations: Imagination Station, Snack impacted the children’s lives now and for eternity! 22 csc news • fall 2017

Here s what some of This is the ’ the kids had to say... best camp EVER! Look at all my new My God sighting friends! today is my leader, I’ll see you I brought my ’ she s the best! next year cousin with me for sure! I’ve been thinking this year about this a lot, and I want to be The singing a Christian is my favourite part ...continued on page 24 23 changed lives - changing lives

Tonnes of fun, creativity, imagination and lessons about God’s creation and purpose. Photos by Chloe Pilon and Riley Kirwan What Leanne is saying... As I was practicing one of the songs, 'You Forgive Me,' at home, the words really hit me and moved me to tears! So grateful to God for taking the pieces of my life, putting them back together, forgiving me, healing me. He s so amazing and ’ so gracious to me! I love it that the words from these fun kids songs speak truth not only to the kids but also to us adults ’ as well! As I was talking to a Kindergarten girl Tuesday morning, she told me that her mom cries when she hears this same song and she didn’t understand why but I know I do! 24 csc news • fall 2017