MISSION TO STONEY CREEK SUMMER UPDATE
Mission to Stoney Creek
It was a packed summer for Mission to Stoney Creek! In June Phil successfully passed his presbyery ordination exams. In July, he was installed as assistant pastor for church planting at New City Hamilton.
Connan’s solemn charge from 2 Timothy 4 still rings in my ears: “Preach the Word, be ready in season and out of season… Be sober-minded, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist and fulfill your ministry.”
It gave me great joy and encouragement to be able to preach at various churches in southern Ontario this summer, sharing about the church plant initiative in Stoney Creek. Establishing gospel connections and partnerships is an invaluable part of church planting work.
On July 22, we hosted a picnic to talk about the church plant, reminding ourselves about how God is building his church and how he loves the people of this place. We worshiped together and shared outreach ideas even as some of our Muslim friends and other supporters joined the picnic. One cool thing is how God is bringing a number of Arabic families into our midst.
Soccer camp for the Riverdale community was a huge success, as Lindsay and I served with Stephen Roy in Riverdale, with some wonderful people from New City, and other Christians who just love the kids of this neighborhood. It was a great time! Many of the kids engaged with the Bible and gospel talks that were given.
Towards the end of summer Connan announced that after 17 years in Hamilton, he has resigned from his role as Lead Pastor of New City. After meeting with the elders, Phil learned that they are very committed to sending Mission to Stoney Creek as a daughter church. Still, Phil will be leaning more into his responsibilities as assistant pastor during this transition of leadership at New City. This will likely mean more preaching and leading at New City church.
We are grateful that God continues to open doors for ministry and outreach in Stoney Creek, particularly with Cheyne Church. They have been hospitable to welcome us to use their building for Bible studies and outreach this fall. Please pray for God’s blessing over this relationship.
We love you and are grateful for you, New City.
Phil, Lindsay, and the kids.
Prayer points:
Ongoing Bible studies with friends and new believers in the area
“Honest evangelism” adult Sunday school class this fall, that it would equip and encourage the body of Christ to initiate gospel conversations
Prayer walks and friendships with folks in the area during the fall and winter months
Search for a senior pastor at New City Hamilton: for elders, pastors, staff, and the church at large
For fellow workers in the gospel as Phil & Lindsay gather a church planting team
The Tadros family: blessing, strength and protection over their marriage, children, work and ministry