We got the word from her daughter while we were on vacation. Christine, one of our extra-grace church members had died alone in her apartment. It wasn’t a big surprise. She had been in and out of the hospital more times than we could count. For most of us, her passing left us with a confusing mix of relief and sadness. She constantly challenged the limits of our love and patience. She loved Jesus but sadly died without being reconciled with her own family. And Jason was her pastor for over 20 years - not always an easy job.
It turns out, being a long term pastor opens many doors to speak the Gospel into people’s lives. Many have no connection to a church, but they do have a connection to us. The idea of going to church is foreign to them, but dropping by the Pastorenatelier is no problem. The trust that has been built over time makes Jason the go-to guy when they need a pastor - as the recent weddings and funerals attest to. Although weddings and funerals might not be considered classic evangelism events, it has allowed us to speak hope and the good news of the Gospel into hundreds of people’s lives in the last few months.
Jason’s platform of “pastor at large” (not large pastor ;-) has taken time to develop. Building trust is a process that bears more and more fruit as we pastor more people outside the church than inside.
Please pray for us as we continue to share the Gospel and seek to make disciples who make disciples. Pray for wisdom and creativity as we lead and encourage others in their lives and ministries. We are in critical need of a youth “pastor” for the growing number of teens in our church. Please pray with us for God’s provision.
Due to rising costs, some donor attrition and a long overdue support adjustment, we are in need of additional funding in order to continue building on the foundations we have laid. Pray for us as we travel to Michigan and Ontario next month to visit friends and supporters, seeking new and increased support.
Over the years Sue has developed a number of training seminars on the topic of intercultural communication and competency for various ministry contexts. On Wednesday, September 21, at 7:00, she will present the seminar "Unity with Diversity". The Seminar will take place at Calvary Baptist Church in Oshawa (300 Rossland Road East, L1G 2X1). You are welcome to participate, if you are in the area. Feel free to contact us if you would like more information.
Gratefully,
Jason and Sue
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