We want to see people powerfully transformed to follow Jesus Christ, to live in loving obedience to God and to serve others in freedom and love
LEAVING YOUR MARK – The Meaning of Free Grace, Mark 1:35 – 2:17
September 23, 2011
Cedar Springs Conference Centre is situated in Sumas, and , for the third year running, Agnes and I were privileged to spend a couple of days at a Pastor’s Retreat. Cedar Springs is a delightful setting in the midst of tall trees, a beautiful lake and neatly manicured and colorful gardens. The story of Cedar Springs is about a vision for Christian ministry that was planted in the mind of the original owner many years ago. As I talked with many of the pastors over lunch and between sessions I was encouraged that the work of God’s Kingdom continues to grow and flourish even amidst difficulty and opposition. We should be praising God that The Salvation Army Cascade Community Church has been proclaiming the gospel in our City for 25 years and we believe that our ministry in the strength of the Holy Spirit will result in many more people coming to know the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord.
Small Group Bible Studies
Once again you are offered the chance to participate in a small group for the purposes of bible study and fellowship. Watch out for the opportunities that will be advertised in coming weeks.
Our Refresh series commenced last Wednesday evening. In the church building. There is still time to join the Women’s Bible Study Group which will be studying the book of Philippians (The Umbrella of Joy) and another group under my leadership Studying the gospel of Mark. We look forward to seeing you at either of these study groups if you don’t have a regular group to attend. These groups start at 6.30pm and conclude at 8pm.
The Salvation Cascade Community Church 25th Anniversary
In just 3 weeks’ time we will celebrate our 25th Church Anniversary on the weekend of October 15,16. On Saturday 15 October we will host a Celebration BBQ in the rear parking lot and this will be followed by a worship and sharing event in the Sanctuary (7 p.m.) in which we will highlight the story of the vision behind the commencement of The Salvation Army in the City of Abbotsford. On Sunday you will receive an invitation to this celebration weekend and we encourage you to invite family and friends who once worshipped with us. It is interesting to note that in November it will have been 15 years since the new Church and Cascade Court building was opened.
India Mission Team
Last Sunday we presented our India Mission team to the congregation. Please remember the Mission Team fundraiser is on October 2. Tickets can be purchased after the service on Sunday ($10/psn or $25/family). If you wish to donate more than $10 a tax receipt can be issued. All proceeds go the general team fund.
Congregational Giving
I thank God for the faithful and systematic giving that is practiced by many of members and Sunday worship attenders. We rely on the outside (of our church ) public to support of our Community Services but our Church work and its associated finances can only be supported by our internal congregation. Can I encourage those of you that have not yet committed to giving systematically to prayerfully consider doing so. Our ministry of the gospel to all ages requires financial as well as practical support. Please enquire at the Kiosk on Sunday about taking a set of boxed and dated giving envelopes or how you can give by direct electronic bank deposit.
Re-designed Website
Go to www.cascadchurch.ca and check out our newly designed website. I am sure you will impressed. Be sure to visit the site regularly to keep in touch and listen to our sermons! Please talk to Mike Cumiskey or Julianne Newell-Wease if you have any suggestions for improvement.
Hope to see you worshipping with us on Sunday!
Ross