THE LOOP 1 Smart. Funny. Athletic. Polite. Godly. DON’T WORRY, WE HAVE YOU COVERED *Caution. Individual results may vary, prayer may be needed.
CENTRAL
Elizabeth Schultz, an Ontario certified teacher, and Christine Hanes, a registered ECE, are excited to provide a Biblical-based preschool program for children to learn and grow. We aim to prepare children for JK while, also, encouraging them to reach their potential in a caring, Christian environment.
CONTACT ELIZABETH SCHULTZ FOR MORE INFORMATION: [email protected] | (905) 357-0169
2 THE LOOP Main Office Welcome to Central open MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9AM - 5PM P.O. Box 20309, 240 Scott St. First-time Guests St. Catharines, ON L2M 7W7 If you are a first time guest, we hope you enjoy your time with us today. Please stop by Central P: 905.937.5610 Connect with your Connection Card to receive an eco-friendly shopping bag and a DVD outlining E: [email protected] who we are as a church - a small gift from us to you! www.centralcommunitychurch.ca
Do you have children? Downtown campus Our Nursery, for children aged 0-2, is ready to welcome your little one and is open during services. 203 Church Street, St. Catharines, ON If you are unsure of where to go, please visit Central Connect. P: 289-271-1014
KidPossible is available for children ages 3 to Grade 5 on Sunday mornings at all of our campuses. If you are a first-time guest, please visit Central Connect to register your child(ren). You can also Pen Centre campus receive directions on where to bring your child(ren) once they are dismissed from the service. Empire Theatre, Pen Centre, St. Catharines, ON
In September, iJam (Gr 6-8) will meet in the new Youth Room on the lower level (across from the kitchen) at our Scott Street Campus after the children are dismissed.
Sunday evenings, the Nursery is open, and children from 2 years - Grade 5 can join us for ‘Substance’ in the Kids Auditorium downstairs. Registration and check in are in the lobby. Service Times
Wondering about God, Jesus, or the Bible? Scott St: 9:30am, 11:15am & 6:00pm Starting Point runs Sundays at Scott Street Campus(10:45am). It is a 4-week, on-going course that Pen Centre: 10:30am explains what it means to be a follower of Christ and is designed for new believers. Downtown: 10:00am
Next Step (Alpha) is a 12-week course designed to answer life’s big questions and to introduce the “basics” of Christianity. A meal is provided. For more info about either course, including when the next course starts, please contact [email protected]. Table of Contents
CONFESSIONS OF A PASTOR 2 LOOKING TO GET BETTER CONNECTED? Join us for Central 101, where we will provide a short overview of our mission and strategy as well CONNECTING THROUGH LIFE GROUPS 3 as provide info on how you can partner with Central to help transform our community. Central 101 BE A PART OF SOMETHING BIG 4 is scheduled several times a year, the next class is running September 14 at 7:00PM at 240 Scott St. For more information about the next ministry Forum on September 14 please contact Karlene at COLLIDE 5 [email protected] CENTRAL YOUTH MOVEMENT 6 If you are looking for ways to get involved, try volunteering in one of Central’s ministry HECTIC IS...BEING A MOM 7 opportunities. You will need to plan to attend an upcoming Ministry Forum to help determine your next best step. SPOTLIGHT ON THE LIBRARY 8 missed a sunday? CENTRAL KIDS 9 Watch or download our Sunday morning sermons on-line at VOLUNTEER MOVEMENT 10 www.centralcommunitychurch.ca. A SHORT HISTORY OF CENTRAL 11 Sermons are also available to order on CD & DVD at the bookstore (Scott Street) or Central Connect NEXTSTEP & MOMENTUM 12 (Downtown & Pen Centre). MONTH AT A GLANCE CALENDAR 13 F.Y.I 14
DO YOU KNOW 15 STAFF DIRECTORY 16 BILL MARKHAM Lead Pastor
[email protected] Single Parent’s LifeGroup by LINDSAY MORTON twitter: @billmarkham
As a young adult, I never, ever could have imagined that I God also provided what became one of the most important would one day be a single Mom. I couldn’t have imagined things in my life at that time - a church that ministered to how difficult or how rewarding this would be, either. But the single parents. We had fellowship, we had biblical advice, biggest surprise of all has been how God completely changed we had parenting classes, we had dinner and childcare I don’t always know the answer! my life through my role as a mother. and we had support and a place where we belonged. There were moms and dads of all ages, from all walks of The good news (for me anyway) is that God has the answer. There is a misconception that Christianity is a faith based on blind trust. In other words, there is no Before He put my daughter in my life, I was going nowhere life, single for various reasons, and at different places with evidence to support what we believe. Often I am challenged by people to give an answer for what I believe. Although I am honoured that they ask for my opinion and fast. I had a background of abuse and neglect, and had no their faith. We banded together and helped each other. perspective, there are times that I really don’t know the answer. Perhaps you have run into this scenario in your own life as well. Here is how I have learned to respond idea how to care for myself. I was depressed, self-destructive, Our children were ministered to by Christian role models, in those times that I am ‘stumped’. and without hope. My life was full of unhealthy behaviours, and cared for by awesome volunteers. ideas, and people. I was failing at my second attempt at college, and I was stuck far from the place I called home. These gifts from God floated me through a very difficult Pretty bleak, right? time in my life, and when I left that particular church in Houston, TX, and moved here to St. Catharines and to FIRST - I ask God to help me with the answer Well, maybe I didn’t know how to live a “Christian” life, but Central, I stored up those things in my heart! I know God Note: In your head, please, otherwise people will think you are talking to yourself again, OR simply state that you God knew me! He sent me a baby, and my life went from not planted a seed in me then, and my passion and vision is to will need some time to think about it and get back to them. Luke 12:11-12 says, “When you are brought before If you are serious about knowing how to keep myself afloat, to being responsible for grow that seed here at Central. synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the studying what the Bible someone else’s well-being. What better way to stop thinking Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.” James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should has to say about some of yourself than to have to take care of someone else? I Sometimes being a single parent feels like living from crisis ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” of the most difficult jumped right in. Being a mom was everything I never knew to crisis. Sometimes becoming a single parent feels like a questions that we face I wanted. crisis! We often have to be both mother and father, and SECOND - If I don’t know the answer, I admit it today, there are some some of us have very little support. Sometimes we have Pretending that you know what you are talking about just makes you look like a fool. In the Bible the book of to expend a great deal of energy undoing the damage that really great web sites Proverbs states, “Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.” George the other parent has done, or is doing on an ongoing basis. that can help you study. “Anxiety weighs down Eliot had it right when he said, “It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to open your mouth and And even though single parenting is common place now, remove all doubt.” we are still surrounded by misunderstanding and prejudice the heart, but a kind word all too often. I am passionate about creating a place where THIRD - I discipline myself to ask tough questions and www.gotquestions.org A great resource for commonly asked we can feel at ease, where we can plant love in each other’s research the answer questions cheers it up.” Proverbs 12:25 hearts through Jesus, and where we can be lifted up by the The truth is, I am lazy by nature. It is easier to settle for ‘pat’ answers then to do the hard work of really understand- fact that our God and our church care deeply for us. ing what I believe and why. (Caution: doing this may shatter some of your faulty, inherited belief systems). www.crosswalk.com For a while, I had help: Financial help as well as built in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us that, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting A devotional, bible study tool babysitters named Nana and Poppy. But eventually that With this vision in mind, a Single Parent’s LifeGroup is and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” The situation stopped working. Remember that abuse and slated to begin in September. My vision may seem big, but only way to discover the truth in the Bible is to actually study it for yourself. www.biblegateway.com neglect I mentioned? When I came out of my “new mom we will be starting small and simple with some fellowship A tool for locating a verse that is stupor”, I realized that I was stuck in a very toxic environment, and food, and letting God work from there. FOURTH - I treat every question with respect and humility tricky to find and couldn’t see a way out. It had seemed like all of our I am afraid that sometimes we as Christians ‘come off’ a bit arrogant; as if we have it all figured out and everyone needs were being met, but when my daughter was a toddler, Whether you are a single parent, or have a heart for single else is an idiot for disagreeing with us. 1 Peter 2:17 tells us to, “Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of www.biblestudytools.com suddenly the blinders came off and I realized I needed much parents and want to help out in any way, please contact believers, fear God, honor the [Prime Minister].” Proverbs 15:1 reminds us that, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, A resource for studying Bible passages more. I needed God! And wow, was God there for me! Once I me for more information at: but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.” realized I couldn’t do life without Him, He provided so much. [email protected] or call me at (905) 932-2104. www.biblecc.com A way out, food on our table, friends who began to walk My prayer for our church is that... A little tricky to navigate but great for alongside us. It all came from Him. We will not spit out the “correct doctrine” without really understanding how it applies to real life, but rather that word studies the truth will be so much a part of us that we actually live it. If we don’t, we are the very thing Jesus hated…a hypocrite.
4 THE LOOP THE LOOP 5 JEFF PRICE ROY OLENDE Red Raining It’s Mission & Multi-Campus Pastor [Campus Pastor, Pen Centre] Young Adults Pastor & Red Frogs National Director [email protected] [email protected] twitter: @JeffPrice1 twitter: @RoyBoss livedifferent.ca wearecollide.ca
Be A Part Of Something Bigger Than Yourself I Think August Is The Best Month Of The Year It is a sad reality that every year there are hundreds of kids in our community who go to school without all the supplies that they need. For them, school is not a place Firstly, my birthday is in August, which is reason enough for the title! Added to my egocentric reasoning is something even more exciting – the return of Red Frogs! If of education, hope or preparing for a future. Rather it is a reminder of their economic struggles and a place of difficulty. This is where LiveDifferent, an extension of you’re unfamiliar with Red Frogs, it is a dynamic worldwide program that serves high school and university students. We recognize that in order to influence a generation, Central Community Church, wants to help. It’s our dream this year to give 100 kids the opportunity to start their school year properly by giving them a backpack full of we must first serve them wherever they are. all the supplies they need for success. We are looking for your help to make this dream a reality by donating a backpack full of supplies that we can give to each child.
On August 27 we will be hosting a community outreach with jumping castles and lots of fun for the kids within a few specific communities. At the event we hope to give At Brock University, this means we’re heavily involved in all the Orientation Week And just in case you’re not yet fully convinced, every child in the neighborhood a backpack full of school supplies. If you are interested in being a part of this exciting opportunity, please bring age and gender specific parties, setting up hydration stations with free water, candy, doughnuts, freezies here are 7 reasons why you, as a young person, backpacks full of school supplies to our donation bins in the lobby. and much more. We create an alternative for students who do not want to drink excessively and also prevent students who are drinking an inordinate amount should get involved in Red Frogs of alcohol from getting overly inebriated. Additionally, we provide alternative Listed below are the SUPPLIES NEEDED for each backpack: You’re young and you’re broke, so new clothes are not always easy events and services at residences throughout the semester. Since we introduced to come by. Well, Red Frogs volunteers receive their very own Red Frogs T-shirts, Red Frogs to Canada, multiple expressions have been planted across the nation. Crayons pencil crayons custom designed and shipped in all the way from Australia! And yes, I’m starting As the Canadian hub for Red Frogs, we host a training retreat for all national with a pretty shallow reason. Glue sticks pencils Red Frogs programs in August, followed by a training day for everyone involved Erasers pencil case at Brock University. If you’re a young person interested in making a MASSIVE Within a few days of becoming a Red Frogger, you 2 three ring binders Lined paper difference, there’s no better way to do that than through Red Frogs. become an instant legend. Few things can boost your self-confidence Binder dividers Duotangs quite like thousands of students yelling, “I love you Red Frogs people!” over 100 times a night. Highlighters Metric ruler You get to make a real difference in the lives of young people. From speaking to suicidal students to fixing sinks, Red Froggers make If you have any questions or would like more information, you can go to Central Connect on Sunday mornings, a tangible difference. check out the Live Different web page (livedifferent.ca) or call me at the office. Alcohol abuse is a major problem on university Thanks for being a part of something great in our community. campuses. As part of the Red Frog crew, you help to provide a safety net for students by running hydration stations at pub nights and parties. You’ve heard of pub crawls, but nothing quite compares to the annual Red Frogs Café Crawl. Downtown St. Catharines – one night – Four brilliant cafes – LOTS of caffeine – awesome people…need I say more? A balanced diet is not top of the priority list for the average 18-25yr old. We provide staple carbohydrates in the form of pancakes. As you make pancakes for students all over campus, the temptation to eat the legendary Red Frog pancake will overwhelm you, but your body will thank us for helping balance out your excessive McDonald’s and Wendy’s intake.
Red Froggers are the exact opposite of Ned Flanders (in a good way). As Red Frogs, our goal is to change the entire university culture at Brock. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to make history.
For more details about Red Frogs, email [email protected]. PS. My sincere apologies to all fans of Ned Flanders. THE LOOP 7 GIANPAOLO GALESSIERE Student Ministries Pastor [email protected] twitter: @ggalessiere Hectic Is....Being A Mom by DORENE MILLS centralyouthmovement.com
When I think about my days as a mom with young children, parenting and life. The group consists of a wide variety of moms and we I think of a few things. I think about the great opportunity I all contribute to the diversity of experience in mothering. We have brand had to nurture and invest in my children by taking time to new moms with their first child, moms with 5 or more children, single play and read stories (some over and over again until we all moms, moms with children in their teens and grandmothers – some The Truth Behind Greatness knew them by heart), teaching them right from wrong and of whom are raising their grandchildren. But the one thing we have in learning how to meet each child’s needs. All the while I was common is the need to know that someone else is either going through A few years ago I was introduced to an amazing teacher and preacher named Judah Smith. Everything about who he was resonated with me and spoke to my inner being. overcoming my own experiences as a child and trying to what we are or has gone through it and can lend an ear, provide advice or As I listened, the truth about what he was saying pierced the depths of my soul and spurred on the idea of becoming a better person. I was so impressed by what I heard create a new legacy, new traditions and fond memories for comfort us with an understanding hug. that I began to investigate who Judah Smith really was. As I googled his name, I was overwhelmed by the amount of information that was written about him. I found my children. It was a 24 hour, 7 day a week job. out that he was the youth pastor at a thriving church out in Seattle Washington. His youth ministry alone had four different campuses and a weekly attendance of over THIS GROUP SERVES A GREAT 2500 students. Obviously this information gave me an even greater excitement about him and I began to listen to his podcast on a daily basis. My infatuation with Judah The job consisted of looking after three very busy boys. Smith and his youth ministry got so intense that I even began to call him my friend even though we hadn’t met. Keeping them safe was a job unto itself as they explored PURPOSE IN OUR CHURCH trees, water and rocks, along with the boundaries we set for them that they constantly pushed against. There wasn’t In order to give moms a real ‘time out’ experience though, it is crucial to any downtime as they grew and routines shifted. Nap time provide childcare for the moms that need it. Members often comment rotated so I always had a child to keep me “company”. about the importance of this service so they can fully engage each and I realized that if I was really going to every week. They can literally come to MTO, drop off their children with understand who Judah Smith was, I needed to The only break I had was when my husband, Steve, came our qualified childcare providers and truly enjoy our morning discussion. meet him. home from work and the boys could enjoy “tackle time with Afterwards, they pick up their children, reenergized for another week. So I got on a plane and traveled across the USA and planned to spend a week with daddy” while I prepared dinner. When I look back at photos This service is critical to the success of the group but in order to provide Judah Smith. From the moment I arrived, to the moment I left, all I can say is that I was of my boys during this time a smile instantly crosses my this service we need a group of volunteers who would be ready and able pleasantly surprised. You see, I had this idea that I was going to spend a week with the face and a sigh of sweet memories follows. But there is no to care for these young children for two hours on a weekly basis, twice a great Judah Smith, youth pastor extraordinaire, but instead I was impacted by the truth denying that it was hectic. month or even once a month. of greatness. Wes, Mark and Jason were the three guys who made what I saw and heard possible. Three guys whom I never even knew existed, but actually made Judah Smith In those early years as a mom, I realize that there are lots of We are currently looking for individuals who can catch this vision and can and his ministry successful. The truth is that when I finally did meet Judah Smith I wasn’t things you want to accomplish and most of them benefit your see how important this service to young moms is. We need a group of all that impressed. Yes, he was amazing and yes, he impacted my life, but I found myself children directly. We sacrifice our own wants and dreams to 8-10 volunteers to come along side us, join our already committed group wanting to spend more time with Wes, Mark and Jason. satisfy the wants and needs of our children and spouse. That of volunteers and really embrace how this service can impact moms. Will is what a great mother does, right? But truth be told, one very you be one of them? IF YOU KNOW WHAT THIS IS...GO AHEAD AND DO CYM is great, not because of me, or any one person. CYM is great because of the countless real need a young mom has is to be in a community of other WHAT YOU NEED TO DO. volunteer hours that are put in by our leaders, week in, and week out. People who work moms who are either going through similar battles or have Please contact me at [email protected] to find out more info about Mom’s Time Out or about joining our dedicated team of volunteers. IF YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT THIS IS, OR WHAT or go to school and on top of that, come back to the church or take a student out for been through it already and can help navigate the emotions, A SMART PHONE IS, YOU MIGHT WANT TO ASK coffee simply because they care. That is why CYM is great. We have 40 leaders who the decisions and sometimes the chaos - especially if she is Mothering will always be a little hectic but having a good ‘time out’ gives SOMEONE YOUNGER TO HELP YOU OUT WITH pour into this generation for no money and no awards, but because they want to make raising children on her own. As moms we want to know that us all a chance to start each week a little more prepared for it. OUR LITTLE EXPERIMENT. a difference in the world. we are not alone.
I want to encourage you as we approach another season of youth ministry here at For that reason, Central has Central. If you have a passion to make a lasting impact in the lives of others, volunteer supported the development of somewhere - anywhere! Believe me when I say that it will satisfy you, like nothing else, a LifeGroup called Mom’s Time when someone’s life is changed because of you. Out which meets at the Scott Street Campus every Wednesday “Mothering will always from mid-Sept to early May. This group is uniquely wired to meet the needs of moms and be a little hectic.” provide the essential ‘time out’ that a mom needs in her week to gain encouragement, friendship and practical information for 8 THE LOOP THE LOOP 9 Spotlight On The Library At Central MARK ROSE Children’s Ministry Pastor What kinds of used materials can I donate to the library? [email protected] DVDs and CDs that are playable centralkids.ca Recent (after 1995 ) Christian non-fiction books that are written by well known contemporary authors Christian fiction books that are in good condition and have been written since 1990 If we already have the material that you donate we will put it on the for sale cart. The money that we receive if we sell it goes to purchase new items If you were to ask me as a child what I wanted to be We also donate Bibles and books to nextstep (Alpha) Note: If you wish to make a donation please contact Helen at 905-934-2179 and arrange to bring the items in when she is at the library. growing up I would have said, “an artist”.
I envisioned myself creating amazing paintings, that would sell for millions of dollars. Today, while I do get to use my artistic abilities as a kids pastor, I am not quite the “Van Gough” I was once convinced I might be. Dr. Gary Chapman’s Five Love Languages Books – Helen Dreschler’s Picks
According to Dr. Gary Chapman we have five main ways ideas for dealing with people at work as well as on In The Love Languages of God, Dr. Chapman shows It is funny how, as parents, we often ask our kids, “WHAT do you want to be when you grow up?” When maybe a better question would be “WHO do you want to to communicate love. He calls them our love languages. the dating scene. If you want to keep your spouse’s us how to speak the different love languages to God. be when you grow up?” My desire as a parent is to see my children become people who love Jesus whole heartedly and reflect His character to others. This is more These love languages are: words of affirmation, quality love tank full, he teaches you how to speak your Although I had embraced the concept of our love important to me than anything else. It is what we pray for all the time in our home. The truth is that if our children truly follow that path, then we can be sure that time, gifts, acts of service, and physical touch. He says partner’s love language.(The Marriage You Have languages between people I had never made the WHAT they want to be will come out of WHO they want to be. that you can improve your relationship with people by Always Wanted, and The Men’s Edition of Five Love connection to God. speaking their love language. Languages). When others speak our primary love As a church, we can help kids towards this decision. Many of you reading this today are here because language we enjoy being with them because he or If you are serious about improving your relationship someone took time with you when you were young to show and teach the love of Jesus (some of those In The Love Languages of children, he shows parents she is meeting our need to feel loved. with people and with God borrow these books from teachers are reading this right now as well). They shared their personal faith stories of how Jesus positively and people who work with children how they can get Central’s library. The encouraging thing is that you can changed their lives. They gave of their Sunday mornings to teach hundreds of kids who came on buses from better responses from children. Parents of teenage The love languages in human relationships are a learn to speak a new language. all over the community and filled the auditorium of the Scott Street campus. They helped you decide WHO children would do well to take the suggestions he sets reflection of divine love. Since we are made in the you wanted to be, a follower of Jesus, committing your life to having a journey with Him. It revolutionized out in, The Five Love Languages of Teenagers. image of God, then we can expect to find all five love WHO you are even to this day. What if those people weren’t there for you? WHO would you be today? In The Five Love Languages for Singles, he gives languages expressed in the character of God. I encourage you to take a look in the eyes of the children that walk through the doors of all our campuses and ask yourself WHO do I want to see THEM become? The truth is, you can be a part of discipling them towards that now. Imagine what this church will look like, both today and ttwenty years from now, if HUNDREDS of you joined the KidPossible Team in one of the exciting opportunities we have available for you to serve in this fall, teaching the kids of each campus and the city of St. Chatharines about who Jesus is and how much He truly loves them? What an incredible picture!! Passing along our stories of how God has changed our lives and shaped us into WHO we are today is so important. Let’s partner with parents together as a church to help see their children grow into people who passionately love Jesus and reflect Him to everyone they connect with throughout their life. That is worth more than being the most famous painter any day.
teen challenge national choir tour live sunday august 28th at 6pm [scott st campus] live at central scott st. campus THE LOOP 11 MIKE HICKS Executive Operations rev·o·lu·tion Spelled [rev-uh-loo-shuhn]–noun by KARLENE MARKHAM [email protected] 1. A sudden, complete or marked change in something twitter: @cccmikehicks 2. A total or radical change; as a revolution in one’s circumstances of way of living.
At the heart of each of us, we all long to to volunteer, that we literally have to ask for people to started. The next Ministry Forum date make an impact in our generation … to give us a second to catch our breath and re-group! We is coming up on Wed., Sept. 14th at live for something larger than ourselves. believe that day is coming! 6:30 p.m., at our Scott St campus. We want to make a difference, to be an A History Of Central Community Church [Pt 1] integral part of a cause that is worth It’s absolutely exciting to know that as Volunteers, Once you’ve expressed an interest in rallying around; something inspiring, we’re definitely growing stronger each day, as the joining our Volunteer Revolution, you This past month I have attended several meetings as we plan for the future of Central Community Church. But as we move forward, my thoughts turn to the past and I where we get to see and experience cords of our lives are strengthened by the common will want to ‘test-drive’ one of our am humbled as I reflect on the beginnings of our church. total or radical change. We want a bond of God’s love that ties us together. As more of volunteering opportunities within a revolutionized way of living! At Central, us get on board and join the revolution, this bond particular Ministry Environment. We one of our passions is to walk alongside will just continue to get stronger. And with more encourage people to try out one of people, and see this reality lived out in Campuses starting in the near future, there are more our volunteer experiences to see if The history of our church, as a Pentecostal church The first pastor was R.E. Sternall, who led the group from June 1, 1921- 1922. This is considered the birthday of the our lives! opportunities and genuine needs for volunteers than it’s going to be a good ‘fit’ for them. in St.Catharines, has been a journey of God’s church in St. Catharines. A hall was rented at 8 Ontario Street, to hold regular meetings. An upstairs room of the hall we’ve ever seen before! After one ‘test-drive’ experience, the providence for 100 years! was large enough to accommodate the growing congregation. One night after the meeting had ended and as people Today, more and more people are Ministry Leader and the Volunteer stayed and prayed to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit, it is reported that,“…all of a sudden we heard these beginning to understand the worth and can connect and see if that particular In 1911, George Chambers came to Vineland to tramping steps coming up and here were the firemen coming up the stairs to try to find out where the fire was.” The significance of volunteering, of being a ministry is something they’d love to pastor a small group of Pentecostal believers. The firemen reported that people down on the street told them that they “saw fire on the top of this building and they part of a bigger picture - even redefining pursue, or perhaps they’d like to try church experienced a revival and over 20 families came out to douse the fire” (Central’s 85th). There was no fire physically, but the Holy Spirit was moving. what volunteering is all about. The heart another opportunity. joined the congregation. In 1912 as the ministry of volunteering can be compared to Important Dates in Vineland prospered, Chambers arranged for a In 1924, as the congregation grew, the church secured a mission hall over a dairy located at 4 Queenston Street. In giving of an incredibly precious gift, the to watch for When each of us makes an intentional summer camp meeting in nearby Jordan Station. 1925, Rev. Tom Johnstone, the first full-time minister was hired. gift of time, service and life. Jesus’ words effort to live a life of giving, it’s then “Mighty signs and wonders” were evident during quoted in Acts 20:35 remind us, ‘It is more Wed Sept. 7th @ 7:00 P.M. that we’ll really see a revolution as the camp meetings, including the reported sound In 1927 the congregation, “approved purchasing the United Church on the corner of Queenston Street and Thorold Rd. blessed to give than to receive.’ VOLUNTEER PEP RALLY – Scott St. Campus defined by its true meaning… ‘A total of an angelic chorus. R.E. Sternall, a founding father (now Oakdale) for $8000 at 6.5% interest”. The purchase price included the chairs, pump organ and pews. The church (For all volunteers!) or radical change; as a revolution in of the PAOC, was present at the camp during this was renamed Elim Tabernacle. This building served as the meeting place for the congregation of Elim until 1968 when The reality is this: each of us has been one’s circumstances of way of living.’ occurrence, and verified its happening. According it moved to its present location at 240 Scott Street. created with a gift; something unique to Wed Sept. 14th @ 6:30 p.m. That’s life worth living! to Jean McKinnon (nee Davidson), who was one of offer! The combined unique-ness of our VOLUNTEER MINISTRY FORUM – Scott St. Campus the first children born into the church, the camp Pastor Gerald Morgan was in leadership (1968-1974) during the transition to the new facility. Many church names were large community of faith between our (This is for you if you’d like to get started!) So, get ready – join Central’s Volunteer grounds were located across from where the considered and after much discussion, Central Gospel Temple was chosen. During the years that we have been at this growing Campuses, simply means that Revolution! If you’re a current present Jordan Station hockey arena is located. It location God has continually showed his mercy and goodness. The 1970’s and 80’s saw our Sunday School become the there are far more shared resources of Volunteer, or you’re interested in more was during this camp meeting that the Pentecostal largest in Canada with 25 buses each doing two runs every Sunday morning. Volunteers spent Saturdays canvassing gifts and talents available than we could information, you need to be at our message came to St. Catharines. neighbourhoods. Average attendance in the mid 1970s was 1600 people each Sunday. ever begin to dream of! Just imagine if Volunteer PEP Rally, coming up soon: everyone got on board with volunteering So, how about you? Are you ready to join our exciting The beginnings of Central go back to a young for one of our exciting ministry Volunteer Revolution, and find out how you can Wednesday September 7th evangelist, David Wellard who came to speak opportunites, and were willing to let start to make an impact on someone’s life, by being from 7:00 – 8:15 p.m. at the small work on Queenston Street in 1919. Scott St campus. those gifts shine! Take a deep breath, willing to begin to share a part of yourself? We’ve On the first night, Mrs. Mabel Cunningham “there are people down on the street that told and just try to envision how many more got a great way to help you get started! Our ‘Ministry received the “Baptism of the Holy Spirit” and For more information on how you lives could be impacted by God’s love! At Forum Volunteer Opportunity’ runs a few times a six weeks later her husband, who was not a can get started anytime, contact: us that they saw fire on the top of this building Central, we dream of a day when we have year, and is that place. Here, people can learn all Christ follower, received a marvelous healing [email protected] so many more people catching the vision about volunteering, and a short application process is and conversion experience. This resulted in the Cunningham home, at 77 Dufferin Street, and we’ve come out to douse the fire.” becoming the location for house meetings.
Over the past 90 years there have been As I reflect on the history of our church I can only wonder what awaits us in the future. I am in awe as I drive to our seventeen pastors in leadership of Elim Tabernacle, downtown campus on Sunday mornings and see the Old Elim Tabernacle just down the street. God has brought us full Central Gospel Temple and Central Community circle. Backed by prayer, sacrifice and the obedience of many who have gone before us, we play a small part in what Church, as we now know it. God has decided to do. 12 THE LOOP THE LOOP 13 DAVID TOPPING August 2011 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Pastoral and Member Care
Donna Lavallee was born and raised in Niagara Falls to a strict Roman Catholic family. She was often torn between feeling connected and yet never being able to live up to her parents expectations. By grade seven she was fighting in school, and her teachers branded her as unmanageable.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Her father had given Donna her first beer at the tender age of 5, and by thirteen Donna had been raped several times and become an alcoholic. She experimented with drugs in high school and it wasn’t long until she graduated to cocaine. At sixteen, she was moved to a girls’ home in Elliott Lake. She MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED found it to be the best years of her life, but soon was kicked out for breaking the rules, and upon coming home went right back into the same abusive lifestyle, and found herself pregnant.
Donna’s first attempt at suicide was in ’91 when her son Andrew was just a few months old. Soon, mixed up with the wrong crowd, and charged with WEEK one week two WEEK three WEEK four WEEK five theft under $1000, her parents deemed her unable to properly care for him, and took over. Next Donna lived common-law with a man who was mentally abusive. She just sank deeper and deeper as she sold herself for drugs, while actually trying to straighten herself out and work in a salon where the owner Wednesday, AUG 3RD MONDAY, AUG 8TH Wednesday, AUG 17th Wednesday, AUG 24th MONDAY, AUG 29th introduced her to Christianity, saying “I can help you through this.” She attended church on and off in ’92 and ’93 and at that time gave her life to Christ. 6:30pm - CYM Live (Grades 7-12) 9:30am - SOSH Breakout 9:30am - SOSH Breakout 6:30pm - CYM Live (Grades 7-12) 8pm - COLLIDE Night Donna soon drifted back into her old lifestyle, attempting a second and third suicide. On the third attempt she woke up in the hospital to see her five year 6:30pm - CYM Live (Grades 7-12) old son by her side begging her never to do that again, and even though it was heart wrenching, she still attempted another suicide. Shortly after, her 6pm - Prayer Downtown 7pm - MTO Potluck And TUESDAY, AUG 9TH 6pm - Prayer Downtown Pool Party Tuesday, AUG 30TH life started getting on track, but now her son was selling drugs and they were using ‘together’. Donna, now having hit bottom, looked in the mirror and 9:30am - SOSH Breakout said, “This isn’t me!” Once more she was arrested, and cried out to God. A woman who knew Donna from her sister’s salon invited her to the Pen Centre 7pm - PreSchool Central Open THURSDAY, AUG 4TH 6pm - Prayer Downtown House At Scott St. Campus campus where she bawled like a baby! She still has struggles and asks for your prayers. 12pm - Noon Prayer Wednesday, AUG 10th THURSDAY, AUG 18TH 9:30am - SOSH Breakout 12pm - Noon Prayer She picked up info about Nextstep (Alpha) growth element and she decided to attend. Donna loved the free food, DVD’s and the new found friends. She 6:30pm - CYM Live (Grades 7-12) WEDNESDAY, AUG 31ST THURSDAY, AUG 25TH asked me “What do I do next?” When I explained salvation, she decided to pray right there at her Next Step table. I remember seeing what seemed to Sunday, AUG 7TH CYM Leaves For Cedar Point be rivers of tears streaming from her eyes. She said she felt so free, as though God had taken over the steering wheel to her life. Her whole demeanor 10:45am - Starting Point 6pm - Prayer Downtown 12pm - Noon Prayer saTURDAY, AUG 20TH changed and people commented on how she appeared to be glowing. Donna is studying her Bible, reading devotionals and enjoying her new life. 7pm - Movie Night 6pm - Prayer Downtown SUNDAY MORNING: THURSDAY, AUG 11TH 7pm - PreSchool Central Open NextStep (Alpha) changes peoples lives. Downtown Campus YOU ASKED FOR IT 9:30am - Breakfast Club House At Scott St. Campus 7pm - Family Prayer For Women 6pm - Prayer Service 9:30am - SOSH Breakout Sunday, AUG 21st saturday, AUG 27TH Scott St. Campus 12pm - Noon Prayer 10:45am - Starting Point 10am Back To School Give Away
SUNDAY MORNING: FRIDAY, AUG 12TH YOU ASKED FOR IT NextStep & momentum begin again WedNESDAY Sept 21 9:30am - SOSH Breakout 12pm - Noon Prayer at scott st & downtown campuses 6pm - Prayer Service Sunday, AUG 28TH Scott St. Campus 10:45am - Starting Point Please come out ‘and bring a friend’ for a free meal & DVD at 6:30 Sunday, AUGUST 14TH 10:45am - Starting Point SUNDAY MORNING: YOU ASKED FOR IT Pick up a brochure at Central Connect for more information or email [email protected] SUNDAY MORNING: YOU ASKED FOR IT 6pm - Teen Challenge Choir At Scott St. Campus 6pm - Prayer Service Scott St. Campus 14 THE LOOP THE LOOP 15 Graham Coveney
Our Sympathies WHERE DID YOU GROW UP? WHAT DO YOU LEAST LIKE TO DO? HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR SPARE TIME? To Mike Gordon and family in the passing of his mother, to the Wallace family in the loss of their mother and grandmother, to Leanne Watson and family in the loss of her Kelowna B.C. // Shop // grandmother, to Ron and Diana Adamyk in the loss of Ron’s mother. With my family & playing Hockey. // WHEN DID YOU BECOME A FOLLOWER OF CHRIST? As a small child // RINGS OR FRIES? Rings // CAKE OR PIE?
CCB Neither // TIM HORTONS OR STARBUCKS? McDonald’s coffee // VANCOUVER OR TORONTO? Vancouver! Vancouver! Vancouver! // FAVOURITE MOVIE? Central’s online community directory, is a crucial resource for our church family as we grow. Request a login on a Connection Card and check off the appropriate box on the Rudy. A true story about perseverance // CD IN YOUR CAR RIGHT NOW? I drive a 96 Honda Civic and only have a tape deck. // FAVOURITE RESTAURANT back, or email [email protected]. Once you are in, be sure to select your preferred privacy settings and your Facebook link (edit profile - social) so friends can find you. AND WHY? East Restaurant for Sushi! // YOUR FIRST CAR? 1972 Oldsmobile Delta 88 // BIGGEST PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT? My 4 Children // BEST The Loop On-Line SERMON EVER HEARD? All of Bill Markham’s! // WHAT IS ONE SPORT YOU WOULD NEVER TRY? Synchronized swimming // WHAT TRAIT DO YOU You can find it under ‘Media,’ and it is available the first Sunday that the printed version is available. Remember, one copy per household helps keep the costs down and helps DEPLORE IN OTHERS? WHAT TRAIT DO YOU ADMIRE IN OTHERS? WHAT BOOK ARE YOU the environment too. Next edition is due Sept 4th. Arrogance and Selfishness // Humility and generosity // READING NOW? Decision Points by: George W. Bush // WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE REMEMBERED FOR? Being a Godly Husband and Father // MOST DEBIT & Credit Card Machine EMBARRASSING MINISTRY MOMENT? Available at Central Connect (Scott Street Campus only at this time) for any giving or purchases you would like to make at Central. Please see the procedure card located at Having to wear a leafs jersey at Church after the Men’s night out event when the leafs beat the Habs. My daughters still have Central Connect for instructions. Cash Back is not available at this time. nightmares seeing this. // WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST FEAR? The leafs winning the Stanley Cup, I guess that is more like a nightmare! // LAST WORDS… I am so
Library & Bookstore (Located at our Scott Street Campus) excited to see what is happening at Central and the impact it is having in our Community and the Kingdom of God! The library is full of great resources for all your needs. Please make sure you sign up for your library card. The Bookstore offers resources to purchase. These include sermons and series, which are available on both CD and DVD. Please visit the Bookstore (located at Scott Street) or Central Connect (Downtown & Pen Centre) to order your copies. There are also limited copies of books, Music CDs and DVDs from special guests who visit us from time to time.
Food Cupboard Central A small but important food cupboard that relies on your donations to keep it stocked with non-perishable items for needs that arise within our church family. You can drop off donations on Sundays or during office hours.
Clothing Depot (now located at 203 Church Street) Located at the Downtown Site ONLY, The Clothing Depot is a vital part of our ministry in our community and is open to accept donations of gently used men’s clothing only at Darrick Vanderwier this time. Donations will be accepted at our downtown location during depot hours only. The depot is open after Sunday morning services and following Alpha on Wednesdays (approx 2:00pm).
Central Live CD WHERE DID YOU GROW UP? Not entirely sure I have yet.... // WHAT DO YOU LEAST LIKE TO DO? Give up a challenge I know I can win/fix/solve // HOW Copies are available in the bookstore (Scott St), at Central Connect (Pen & Downtown) for just $15, and on iTunes at itunes.ca/centrallive. All proceeds will be used to produce DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR SPARE TIME? Teaching my kids how to surf “apple related rumor” sites // WHEN DID YOU BECOME A FOLLOWER OF future projects. CHRIST? At the ripe old age of “8” // RINGS OR FRIES? Poutine! // CAKE OR PIE? Cheesecake // TIM HORTONS OR STARBUCKS? Tim Hortons // Pursuit DVD VANCOUVER OR TORONTO? Toronto // FAVOURITE MOVIE? Any romantic chickflick will do just fine. :) // CD IN YOUR CAR RIGHT NOW? Some kids CD that Copies are available in the bookstore (Scott St), at Central Connect (Pen & Downtown) for just $15, and online at thepursuitfilm.com. All proceeds will be used to produce future projects. Marcus and Lauren sing along with.... (as do I sometimes) // FAVOURITE RESTAURANT AND WHY? East Side Marios will forever hold a special place in my heart... Natalie & I had many first dates there // YOUR FIRST CAR? 1992 Red Dodge Dakota Sport pickup // BIGGEST PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT? Somehow getting Natalie to say Board Members Joe Caruso, Graham Coveney, Sharon Hauck,, Jamie Idzenga, Shawn Ledwez, Gerry Martyn, Rick Rikerrink , Scott Schultz, Barry Wills “yes” to marrying me // BEST SERMON EVER HEARD? God made a perfect world, Sin destroyed it, Jesus fixed it, now you can enjoy it // W HAT IS ONE SPORT YOU
Financial Report WOULD NEVER TRY? Pretty much any of them..... // WHAT TRAIT DO YOU DEPLORE IN OTHERS? Being close-minded to new apple products // WHAT June Operational Budget: $138,000 TRAIT DO YOU ADMIRE IN OTHERS? Honesty & Sincerity // WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? Final Cut Pro X - “The Missing Manual” // WHAT DO June Operational Actual: $137,400 Missions and Benevolance Budget: $17,000 YOU WANT TO BE REMEMBERED FOR? More than just being the guy that can fix your “iPhone” // MO ST EMBARRASSING MINISTRY MOMENT? Playing Missions and Benevolance Actual: $14,400 Jesus in the Easter play and giving the crowd a two handed peace/victory sign! // WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST FEAR? That my sarcastic humor would unintentionally hurt LAST WORDS… *Creative Arts Disclaimer Central does not necessarily endorse all movies, artists or authors whose materials are used or referenced during a service. someone. Or that I would fail in my role to be a reflection of God to Natalie and my kids // If you are interested in getting involved in any way serving God through technology... Come see me in the Tech Booth. (I am the bald guy). :) 16 THE LOOP CENTRAL COMMUNITY CHURCH P.O. Box 20309, 240 Scott St. St. Catharines, ON L2M 7W7 P: 905.937.5610 [email protected] www.centralcommunitychurch.ca Lead Team
Lead Pastor Creative Communications Mission & Multi-Site [Campus Pastor, Pen Centre] Executive Operations Bill Markham Adam Fry JEFF PRICE Mike Hicks Ext. 242 Ext. 245 Ext. 248 Ext. 224 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Pastoral & Ministry Team
Campus Pastor, Downtown Campus Pastor, Niagara Falls Pastoral Care & Alpha Amy Miska JUSTIN DRieDGER David Topping Ext. 221 Ext. 248 Ext. 244 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Worship Arts Director Worship Leader, Scott St. Worship Leader, Downtown Worship Leader, Niagara Falls Mark Whitson Greg Sykes Becca Rowan Melanie DRieDGER Ext. 260 Ext. 240 Ext. 240 Ext. 248 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Young Adults Pastor/Red Frogs Student Ministries Pastor Children’s Ministries Professional Counselor Roy Olende Gianpaolo Galessiere Mark & Cindy Rose Agnes Vrieze, MSW RSW Ext. 251 Ext. 252 Ext. 255 Ext. 241 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Administrative & Support Team
Reception & Admin Assistant Executive Assistant To Lead Pastor Assimilation Director Volunteer Coordinator AShley Covello DORENE MILLS Emily Sluys Karlene Markham Ext. 221 Ext. 223 Ext. 223 Ext. 257 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Video Director Production Director Print & Publications Director Building Support Scott Trapasso DARRICK VANDERWIER ANDREW PLETT Corinne Durksen Ext. 256 Ext. 245 Ext. 222 [email protected] [email protected] Sarah Lalonde [email protected] Floyd Martineau Building Superintendant Central Catering Accounting Mike Orshinsky Greg Burns IRIS REGIER & CHRIS June Punton Ext. 227 FANNELL Ext. 228 [email protected] [email protected]
18 THE LOOP