Starbucks is selling Eggnog coffees, houses are lit up with Christmas lights, and mad shopping has commenced – all sure signs that it’s December and Christmas is almost here! I’m sitting in Starbucks typing this update, to the accompaniment of “I’m dreaming of a white Christmas…”
These last few months have been something of a whirlwind of activity, and we are excited as we see how God is drawing together a team with a heart to touch this city with God’s message of love. It was amazing to look around the room on Sunday as we worshipped God together, seeing faces that we didn’t know just a few months ago but who are now becoming friends, and team together in God’s purposes. Each week God has brought new people to us, and each week it seems that our engagement with God’s presence together deepens.
It seems only a short time ago when Sara and I were announcing to our friends in ChristChurch London that we felt God had spoken to us about planting a church in Vancouver. It is thrilling, less than a year later, to have a growing team here in Vancouver, in the UK and in South Africa. Over these past four weeks on Sundays we have been working our way through Acts 1 & 2, and this last week we found ourselves looking at God’s heart for the people of every nation. Gathered in the room were people from Canada, England, South Africa, Korea and India. I believe God is birthing a church that is for this great city, yet is truly multi-cultural and multi-racial, a stunning picture of God’s love for all peoples.
With Christmas around the corner we have a few things happening!
Christmas is a time for family and community. So, let’s take the opportunity to get to know one another, to share stories and eat together!
Meal on Sunday
This Sunday (18 Dec) we won’t be doing our normal Sunday afternoon meeting, we’ll be having a meal together at the Scotts house for all who are in Vancouver. We’ll be starting at 5pm – and any one is welcome. Just let us know, so we know to cater!
Hockey night for the guys
On Monday 19 Dec the guys are gathering for an evening of pizza and watching hockey. Join us from 6pm at Steve and Kim’s apartment. Call me if you need directions – 604.379.3848
Carols by Candlelight
Mince pies, hot chocolate, mulled wine, and carols on Friday 23 Dec at 6pm at the Scotts (166 West11th Avenue, Vancouver, V5Y 1S7) – come and ponder the wonder of God incarnate with us…
Christmas Day
We’re hosting Christmas dinner at the Scotts, and we so far have 14 people signed up. 3:30pm on Christmas Day – if you’re far from loved ones or not with family that day come and join us. But do let us know you’re coming, we need to know numbers for this meal! You email me here.
New Years Eve
We’re going to be gathering at the Scotts to worship and pray the New Year in. 8pm on Saturday 31st Dec at 166 West 11th Ave, Vancouver, V5Y 1S7 – come and join us!
