AN INTERVIEW WITH DARREN

Get to know one of our elders, Darren Schutten, below!

1. How did you become a part of New City? How did you become an elder?
Our family was introduced to New City by friends, and we started attending regularly in 2014. At that time, we were living in Burlington but moved to Hamilton shortly after. We quickly got plugged into the life of the Church and were encouraged by its mission and vision. I was nominated to be an elder in 2018 and benefited from the intense training led by Connan and Moses. In September 2019 I was ordained as an elder.

2. Who are the important people in your life?
My wife Erica and our three kids, Alexa, Blake and Micah are the most important people in my life. They show me the Gospel in many ways every day and help me grow and develop my Christian character. I am so thankful that God has placed them in my life.

3. What is the best thing about your job?
I work for the Christian Labour Association of Canada, a national union representing workers in multiple sectors. I work specifically in the construction industry. The organization aligns with my values of treating people with respect, dignity, and fairness. I enjoy building relationships and advocating for workers rights in their workplaces.

4. What do you enjoy most about serving as an elder at New City?
I am blessed to be part of a united group of mature Christians who serve God’s Kingdom as elders and learning from the collective wisdom of the Session. I currently serve as the Session Clerk and am somewhat active on far too many WhatsApp groups. As an elder, I enjoy walking alongside members in their trials and joys. I’m also thankful for the PCA denomination, its Church governance, and belonging to a larger body of believers.

5. What’s your ideal weekend away?
Since I can’t experience Ancient Egypt in one weekend, I think an ideal weekend would be at a cottage up north with friends or attending one of the many Hamilton sports events and dinner with live music.