Sojourn Community Church Update
Hello New City,
We wanted to give you an update about what Sojourn is up to during the first summer of its existence.
Soccer camp took place near the Kenora neighborhood from July 2-5. While we were low on volunteers, the Lord provided each day. Forty kids were present, about 10 of whom were from churched families. The Athletes in Action coaches were wonderful and servant-hearted, not to mention our own volunteers who gave of their time and energy, under the sun every day. Gospel conversations were had, along with meaningful discussions, every day. Praise God for safety and meaningful connections with the kids and the parents, some of whom expressed interest in our church. By popular demand, we decided to plan a picnic for the soccer camp, happening at the same park (Sam Manson) on Saturday July 27.
On July 13, we held our first retreat on a beautiful countryside property that belongs to some dear friends of Sojourn. We held our first membership class attended by some transferring members of New City, 5 outside families and a few individuals, one of whom is taking steps towards new faith in Christ. We played, laughed, worshiped, connected, dreamed, reflected on the journeys of the biblical patriarchs, did some team activities, and of course we ate together. The Lord Jesus is knitting us together.
On July 14, we held our first worship service (as a trial). Many people commented that it didn’t feel much of a trial. This is because the Lord has blessed us with servant-hearted leaders and members who have put thought and prayer into their service. The message was based on Luke 14:7-14 and titled “an invitation to the gospel feast,” and was focused on the hospitality and generosity of our God, who calls the “poor, crippled, blind, and lame” into the joyful feast of his kingdom, where His Son Jesus feasts with us. The church now is a foretaste of that coming feast that will be better than any other, the marriage supper of the Lamb!
There are lots of exciting things happening yet. There are 4 people returning to faith or taking steps of faith in Jesus for the first time. They expressed desire for community and learning together this summer, so we are excited to host Christianity Explored every Sunday in August and thereafter before our worship service in September. The course is 8 weeks long. One of our participants (and now friend) would like to get baptized at the end of the course. Some of the grown up children in the group also want to take steps of faith. This is very exciting.
Needless to say, there is a lot going on, as Sojourn establishes ministries, grows into an inviting community, and forms deep roots and relationships in Jesus. Keep us all in your prayers, to cling and cleave to Jesus, for without him we can do nothing (John 15:5)
Phil & Lindsay