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January 2020 Newsletter
A New Year’s Prayer For You and Me!
Let us pray… Lord God, Heavenly Father, You have created us for a life of eternity! Forgive us the sins of the past, and breathe into us the Spirit of Your Son that we may serve You in this new year.
At the beginning of this new year, pour into our hearts the rich measure of Your grace, that we may fill the moments of the new year with enduring qualities of your Kingdom. Remind us that You placed Your Son under the Law to fulfill all righteousness FOR US. Thank you Jesus! Make us now by faith and trust, your obedient children. During this new year, may we find the courage to begin again because You, Lord, are our beginning and our end. Our hope for today and the future is in You. In You, this year and all things are made new because we are forgiven. For Jesus sake, help us to live for You and those you have placed in our lives. Amen!
Happy New Year! It’s 2020! It’s another year of God’s favour and grace! Ready or not, let’s take on the challenges and opportunities that come our way, my brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ, Immanuel.
Sincerely, Pastor Lee
Here’s what coming in terms of our January focus as we follow Jesus, our Lord and Savior and receive His gifts. We are going to talk about what it means to seek FIRST, God’s Kingdom. We are also going to spend some time allowing God’s Word to re-shape and transform our lives – the little actions and the big ones make a difference! I’m praying for our gracious Lord to lead and guide us in each step of faith we take this new year.
January 5 First!
What kind of year would you like to have in 2020? What kind of year was last year for you spiritually? Spiritually Apathetic. Spiritually Inconsistent. Or Spiritually Consumed? However last year went, join us as we focus on keeping "first things first" God's way by His grace and strength. "But seek first [God’s] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33
January 12 Who Before Do! (Habits Week 1)
Which is more difficult for you: making a habit or breaking a habit?
Why do you think that is? Thankfully we are not alone in this. God is
with us. Thankfully with God's help, we can always grow. "Let us not
become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a
harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9 NIV
January 19 Starting! (Habits Week 2)
Based on who you want to become, what’s one habit you want to start? Do you think God cares about the "small" choices we make in life (good or bad?)? Let's look at what it means to get into a good routine and how we can encourage each other in those new beginnings.
January 26 Stopping! (Habits Week 3)
Based on who you want to become, what habit do you want to break? Look down the road. Where could you end up if you don’t break a bad habit? "So get rid of every filthy habit and all wicked conduct. Submit to God and accept the word that he plants in your hearts, which is able to save you. James 1:21 (GNB)
Christianity Explored
"What’s the best news you’ve ever heard?”You might have read that question in the January newsletter; you probably remember hearing Pastor Lee ask it during announcements after worship; and it’s been in the bulletins too; “What’s the best news you’ve ever heard?” It’s the theme question of “Christian Explored”, a Bible study based on the book of Mark designed for those who are exploring Christianity for the first time, AND for those who want to re-explore their faith in a fresh way.
We will explore by; discussing five things Mark tells us about Jesus that show us who He is, talking about sin as our heart problem, seeing the cross as Jesus’ way of rescuing us, learning (again and again) that the resurrection is proof that Jesus has indeed conquered death, and understanding (again and again) that grace is God’s undeserved gift to us. In the final two sessions we will put the results of our exploration together. We will hear Mark give examples of people who rejected Christ as the answer to the big question as well as people who accepted Him. Finally, we will consider, in a personal way, Jesus’ challenge/command, “Come, follow me!”
This course is being offered at two times beginning on Wednesday, January 8. The morning sessions start at 10:30 and end at 11:45 followed by a fellowship meal. The evening sessions start at 6:00 with a fellowship meal and close at 8:00. Child care will be provided for morning and evening sessions. The final session, Tuesday, February 25 will have a different format; both groups will meet with other members and guest of Immanuel for a Shrove Tuesday supper and then close with “Follow me”.
Come and learn (or re-learn) about Jesus. Invite that friend with whom you have wanted to share your faith but wondered how. Explore together!
Treasurer Report - January 2020Pre-School: November financials confirm that Pre-School is again operating slightly above “break even”! That is excellent news!
General Fund: Revenue: November receipts were slightly below our expectations. By the time you read this, December will have been completed – but we are hopeful that there will be a large increase in December so that we can achieve our operational budgeted requirements. Notwithstanding that, we have made exceptional progress in 2019 in paying off much more of our mortgage that we could have anticipated; and we’ve set aside money in Dedicated Accounts to be spent in 2020. We have indeed been blessed!
Costs: Our costs continue to be very well managed. We have controlled our spending according to our budget and we’ve made adjustments as necessary – with the approval of the congregation at Voters’ Meetings.
We have purchased Quick Books (the most common accounting soft ware program in North America, to help us even better manage our finances. We will begin using it for our church accounts on January 1st ; (or 2nd!) and for Preschool a few months later. This system is much less complex than our current system and will be easier to train new people to run the system when that might become necessary.
Mortgage: As stated last month, we continue to expect that our mortgage will be fully paid for in the first part of 2023!
God Bless – and Happy New Year to everyone!
Immanuel Library Book of the MonthHiding in the Light - Leaving Islam for Christianity cost her more than she imagined, but gave more than she could have dreamed. Rifqa Bary grew up in a devout Muslim home, obediently following her parents’ orders to practice the rituals of Islam. But God was calling her to freedom and love. He was calling her to true faith. He was calling her to give up everything. This is the true story of Rifqa’s remarkable spiritual journey from Islam to Christianity. It is also the untold story of how she ran from her father’s threats to find refuge with strangers in Florida, only to face a controversial court case that reached national headlines. Most of all, it is the story of a young girl who made life-changing sacrifices to follow Jesus—and who inspires us to do the same.
A New Year Invitation
Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Deuteronomy 6:5-6
Three-year-old Corbin was playing with his toy animals around the manger. He picked up the cow and said, 'Moooooo. Hey kid, what are you doing in my breakfast?' Our children often surprise and delight us with their insights. They have much to teach us and with the Christmas season ending, we pray you hopefully made time to share with your children what Christmas is really about. Families are the prime nurturers of faith in their children, so although we don't think the things, we do in our family are anything spectacular, we may underestimate our influence and responsibility. Children learn best not by what we tell them (we know that by the number of times we have told a child to tidy their bedroom) but by the way we live out our faith each day - in the good times and the more difficult times.
God is with us - this is the message of Christmas. That is the message we also carry into the New Year. Christ is with us through His Word and the Holy spirit. We pray you and your family will experience and know this more fully this year. We know Christian parents want to talk with their kids about God, but it can be hard to know how to make this a natural part of our daily living. The good news is that talking about faith often means talking about everyday life. Growing Faith at Home is a flexible resource that can be used by everyone to share faith together. You can find this resource located at https://www.immanuellutheran.ca/ under the “Ministries of Immanuel” tab. Or join us for a Pizza night in January to learn more and be part of our pilot group, trying out this resource. Speak to any of the Board of Education members for information and date and time.
Look for more information on the following opportunities to explore over the next several weeks and month:
Board of Education - Karen Barby, Katherine Canfield, Kent Karapita, Gordon Myers, Don Zech
A Sincere Thank-You
To All Church Servants, volunteers & staff - A Sincere Thank You. This message is for everyone who serves - from the bookkeeper, Sunday school teacher, altar guild, property, janitor, website admin, secretary, pastor and everyone in between, not mentioned here.
As we begin a new year, I want to thank everyone. I want you to know that I know being a pastor, church staff member or a committed church servant volunteer is often the most difficult job in the world. While it has unbelievable highs and on its best days is the most rewarding occupation/calling in the world, it is also the most difficult.
Unlike those in the marketplace, you lead volunteer armies and face an enemy (Satan and his demons) we may or may not encounter on a regular basis.
You have given your lives to serve people, individuals, families and friends. As a result, the two most important words I and everyone else under your leadership can ever say is "thank you."
A Servant With You in Christ,
Katherine Canfield, Parish Coordinator
Let us pray… Lord God, Heavenly Father, You have created us for a life of eternity! Forgive us the sins of the past, and breathe into us the Spirit of Your Son that we may serve You in this new year.
At the beginning of this new year, pour into our hearts the rich measure of Your grace, that we may fill the moments of the new year with enduring qualities of your Kingdom. Remind us that You placed Your Son under the Law to fulfill all righteousness FOR US. Thank you Jesus! Make us now by faith and trust, your obedient children. During this new year, may we find the courage to begin again because You, Lord, are our beginning and our end. Our hope for today and the future is in You. In You, this year and all things are made new because we are forgiven. For Jesus sake, help us to live for You and those you have placed in our lives. Amen!
Happy New Year! It’s 2020! It’s another year of God’s favour and grace! Ready or not, let’s take on the challenges and opportunities that come our way, my brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ, Immanuel.
Sincerely, Pastor Lee
Here’s what coming in terms of our January focus as we follow Jesus, our Lord and Savior and receive His gifts. We are going to talk about what it means to seek FIRST, God’s Kingdom. We are also going to spend some time allowing God’s Word to re-shape and transform our lives – the little actions and the big ones make a difference! I’m praying for our gracious Lord to lead and guide us in each step of faith we take this new year.
January 5 First!
What kind of year would you like to have in 2020? What kind of year was last year for you spiritually? Spiritually Apathetic. Spiritually Inconsistent. Or Spiritually Consumed? However last year went, join us as we focus on keeping "first things first" God's way by His grace and strength. "But seek first [God’s] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33
January 12 Who Before Do! (Habits Week 1)
Which is more difficult for you: making a habit or breaking a habit?
Why do you think that is? Thankfully we are not alone in this. God is
with us. Thankfully with God's help, we can always grow. "Let us not
become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a
harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9 NIV
January 19 Starting! (Habits Week 2)
Based on who you want to become, what’s one habit you want to start? Do you think God cares about the "small" choices we make in life (good or bad?)? Let's look at what it means to get into a good routine and how we can encourage each other in those new beginnings.
January 26 Stopping! (Habits Week 3)
Based on who you want to become, what habit do you want to break? Look down the road. Where could you end up if you don’t break a bad habit? "So get rid of every filthy habit and all wicked conduct. Submit to God and accept the word that he plants in your hearts, which is able to save you. James 1:21 (GNB)
Christianity Explored
"What’s the best news you’ve ever heard?”You might have read that question in the January newsletter; you probably remember hearing Pastor Lee ask it during announcements after worship; and it’s been in the bulletins too; “What’s the best news you’ve ever heard?” It’s the theme question of “Christian Explored”, a Bible study based on the book of Mark designed for those who are exploring Christianity for the first time, AND for those who want to re-explore their faith in a fresh way.
We will explore by; discussing five things Mark tells us about Jesus that show us who He is, talking about sin as our heart problem, seeing the cross as Jesus’ way of rescuing us, learning (again and again) that the resurrection is proof that Jesus has indeed conquered death, and understanding (again and again) that grace is God’s undeserved gift to us. In the final two sessions we will put the results of our exploration together. We will hear Mark give examples of people who rejected Christ as the answer to the big question as well as people who accepted Him. Finally, we will consider, in a personal way, Jesus’ challenge/command, “Come, follow me!”
This course is being offered at two times beginning on Wednesday, January 8. The morning sessions start at 10:30 and end at 11:45 followed by a fellowship meal. The evening sessions start at 6:00 with a fellowship meal and close at 8:00. Child care will be provided for morning and evening sessions. The final session, Tuesday, February 25 will have a different format; both groups will meet with other members and guest of Immanuel for a Shrove Tuesday supper and then close with “Follow me”.
Come and learn (or re-learn) about Jesus. Invite that friend with whom you have wanted to share your faith but wondered how. Explore together!
Treasurer Report - January 2020Pre-School: November financials confirm that Pre-School is again operating slightly above “break even”! That is excellent news!
General Fund: Revenue: November receipts were slightly below our expectations. By the time you read this, December will have been completed – but we are hopeful that there will be a large increase in December so that we can achieve our operational budgeted requirements. Notwithstanding that, we have made exceptional progress in 2019 in paying off much more of our mortgage that we could have anticipated; and we’ve set aside money in Dedicated Accounts to be spent in 2020. We have indeed been blessed!
Costs: Our costs continue to be very well managed. We have controlled our spending according to our budget and we’ve made adjustments as necessary – with the approval of the congregation at Voters’ Meetings.
We have purchased Quick Books (the most common accounting soft ware program in North America, to help us even better manage our finances. We will begin using it for our church accounts on January 1st ; (or 2nd!) and for Preschool a few months later. This system is much less complex than our current system and will be easier to train new people to run the system when that might become necessary.
Mortgage: As stated last month, we continue to expect that our mortgage will be fully paid for in the first part of 2023!
God Bless – and Happy New Year to everyone!
Immanuel Library Book of the MonthHiding in the Light - Leaving Islam for Christianity cost her more than she imagined, but gave more than she could have dreamed. Rifqa Bary grew up in a devout Muslim home, obediently following her parents’ orders to practice the rituals of Islam. But God was calling her to freedom and love. He was calling her to true faith. He was calling her to give up everything. This is the true story of Rifqa’s remarkable spiritual journey from Islam to Christianity. It is also the untold story of how she ran from her father’s threats to find refuge with strangers in Florida, only to face a controversial court case that reached national headlines. Most of all, it is the story of a young girl who made life-changing sacrifices to follow Jesus—and who inspires us to do the same.
A New Year Invitation
Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Deuteronomy 6:5-6
Three-year-old Corbin was playing with his toy animals around the manger. He picked up the cow and said, 'Moooooo. Hey kid, what are you doing in my breakfast?' Our children often surprise and delight us with their insights. They have much to teach us and with the Christmas season ending, we pray you hopefully made time to share with your children what Christmas is really about. Families are the prime nurturers of faith in their children, so although we don't think the things, we do in our family are anything spectacular, we may underestimate our influence and responsibility. Children learn best not by what we tell them (we know that by the number of times we have told a child to tidy their bedroom) but by the way we live out our faith each day - in the good times and the more difficult times.
God is with us - this is the message of Christmas. That is the message we also carry into the New Year. Christ is with us through His Word and the Holy spirit. We pray you and your family will experience and know this more fully this year. We know Christian parents want to talk with their kids about God, but it can be hard to know how to make this a natural part of our daily living. The good news is that talking about faith often means talking about everyday life. Growing Faith at Home is a flexible resource that can be used by everyone to share faith together. You can find this resource located at https://www.immanuellutheran.ca/ under the “Ministries of Immanuel” tab. Or join us for a Pizza night in January to learn more and be part of our pilot group, trying out this resource. Speak to any of the Board of Education members for information and date and time.
Look for more information on the following opportunities to explore over the next several weeks and month:
- Christianity Explored – Weds. Jan 8 – Feb. 19th
- Growing Faith - informational Pizza Night -TBA-January 2020
- Teaching to Transform Not Inform - TBA
Board of Education - Karen Barby, Katherine Canfield, Kent Karapita, Gordon Myers, Don Zech
A Sincere Thank-You
To All Church Servants, volunteers & staff - A Sincere Thank You. This message is for everyone who serves - from the bookkeeper, Sunday school teacher, altar guild, property, janitor, website admin, secretary, pastor and everyone in between, not mentioned here.
As we begin a new year, I want to thank everyone. I want you to know that I know being a pastor, church staff member or a committed church servant volunteer is often the most difficult job in the world. While it has unbelievable highs and on its best days is the most rewarding occupation/calling in the world, it is also the most difficult.
Unlike those in the marketplace, you lead volunteer armies and face an enemy (Satan and his demons) we may or may not encounter on a regular basis.
You have given your lives to serve people, individuals, families and friends. As a result, the two most important words I and everyone else under your leadership can ever say is "thank you."
- Thank you for going to God on our behalf and praying for us daily.
- Thank you for studying God's Word and communicating its truths to us in a compelling fashion.
- Thank you for demonstrating grace, love and patience when people question your motives and competency. Sheep may be dumb, but they bite. And they have a taste for pastors, church staff and church volunteers.
- Thank you for putting in countless hours.
- Thank you for being a continual learner.
- Thank you for being men and women who strive to be disciples of Christ with integrity.
- Thank you to your spouses and children for their willingness to share you with us.
- Thank you for helping us discover our spiritual gifts.
- Thank you for challenging and then helping us live a life of meaning and purpose.
- Thank you for seeing what we could be through the power of Jesus Christ and not just what we currently are.
- Thank you for presiding over the landmark moments of our lives—baptisms, weddings and funerals. Thank you for supporting us through these times.
- Thank you for telling us, "You're going to make it. It's going to be OK."
- Thank you for having the courage to tell us about the sin in our lives and our need for repentance and a Savior.
- Thank you for allowing us to serve alongside you and make a difference.
- Thank you for expanding and helping to shape our worldview.
- Thank you for your great faith in what God can do.
- Thank you for creating environments that help us raise Godly children.
- Thank you for making hard decisions and then living with the results.
- Thank you for walking with us through tragedy, marital troubles, raising children and life's great challenges.
- Thank you for the periodic phone calls, texts and emails just to see how we are doing.
- And most of all, thank you for not quitting each Monday.
- Not praying for you more.
- Not being as passionate as we could about the church's mission and vision.
- Not bringing our friends to church or reaching outside our circle as often as we should.
A Servant With You in Christ,
Katherine Canfield, Parish Coordinator
