Next Steps

To celebrate the 60th anniversary today we enjoyed lunch as a staff with some of our founding members and shared stories from 60 years of ministry.

Today we celebrate 60 years! We are deeply grateful for God's faithfulness over the past six decades. Here's to 60 years of growing together in Christ, and to many more to come.

Christ has made a way for God to dwell with us! -- Watch the full service, available on our YouTube channel

We love the work @missionserviceslondon does for those in need in our city. Every November, we partner with Mission Services in our Dare to Give Campaign. Grab a bag, fill it with the items from the provided list, and return it to North Park by December 8th. We'll then deliver it to Mission Services London to help supply basic needs to those most vulnerable in our community. -- For more information visit northpark.ca/daretogive

Bob Cottrill led North Park’s worship ministry from October 1999-August 2012. During this time, he and his family blessed North Park with music that spanned across multiple genres, with extended contemporary worship during epic Saturday night services, large choirs and orchestra arrangements, and multiple ensembles who led North Park’s enthusiastic congregation

Faith, unity, and the Holy Spirit is what empowers us! -- Watch the full service, available on our YouTube channel

Faith and Science is a course is designed to increase knowledge and generate dialogue on discoveries in medical science that impact on the Christian faith. It will emphasize the positive attributes of scientific advancement, while highlighting the potential ethical issues and areas of concern that may seem to conflict with biblical doctrine. It is the hope that by taking this course participants will conclude that there is room for science and faith to coexist in harmony as we seek to live Godly lives. -- Mondays starting November 11 7:00-9:00pm northpark.ca/register

After being mentored by Richard Goetze to ensure a strategic and intentional transition, Terry Sanderson became North Park’s Senior Pastor in 1996. He served in this position until 2009, and was respected for his dynamic, relevant, engaging teaching style. Terry continued his ministry in Missouri and recently returned to Canada where he is now a pastor in Thornhill.

STAFF PICKS -- "Given our renewed intentionality around spiritual practices and how they shape us to experience God more deeply, I found this book very timely for me to read. The author takes very common things that we do every day, like brushing our teeth, or sitting in traffic, and uses them to remind us to see God in every moment of our days. She reminds us to use these mundane tasks almost as triggers to set up spiritual practices and worship. Something I hadn't thought about connecting before. I have to admit, the title of this book didn't appeal to me. The word liturgy sounds a little intimidating, but I was pleasantly surprised at how much "liturgy" exists in my life that I don't even recognize. I was challenged to use these everyday tasks to become more aware of God's presence in my life and take these opportunities to praise him for it all." --Wanda Silvester, Executive Co-Lead

In a divided world, Jesus unites us! -- Watch the full service, available on our YouTube channel

Calling all knitters! We are accepting hats and mitts for small heads and hands to gift to the students at Lord Elgin Public School when we welcome them in December for the annual turkey dinner event. We would love to be able to give a set to each student and we need you to help us reach that goal! -- Drop off at any donation table or bin.

In 1993, after outgrowing the first chapel constructed in the neighbourhood of Northridge on McLean Dr., North Park took a massive leap of faith to build a new building, trusting that God would fill these walls with people of all ages who were eager to proclaim and practice the living truth.

We're excited to have Pastor Terry Sanderson guest speaking this weekend, continuing in our series, "Proclaim and Practise the Living Christ" as we move towards celebrating our 60 year anniversary as a church.

Throwing it back to where it all began! As we approach our 60th anniversary next month, we remember our beginnings at Northridge Public School and continue to look forward to all that God has in store for our future.

God has already won, and his mission to the world continues through His chosen people. -- Watch the full service, available on our YouTube channel

As we launch our new series, let’s celebrate the past 60 years and look forward to what God has in store.

This weekend we begin our new sermon series "To Proclaim and Practice the Living Christ" as we as moving towards celebrating our 60th anniversary as a church. We want to reflect on what it means to be God's people and what it means to be sent out to the world to be on mission.

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT -- Christine leads one of the most joy-filled ministries we have at North Park - our Friendship Club! Each Tuesday evening, a wonderful group made up of individuals who have intellectual disabilities, joined by some support workers as well as a fantastic team of North Park volunteers, gathers together for a time of worship, learning, crafting, and fun. Christine's warm and welcoming smile, and the patient and loving way that she listens and cares for people, are just a few of the many gifts she brings to the table as she serves and leads this truly special group each week. Thank you Christine for serving so faithfully in this ministry!

God is not building a fortress to block out the world, He is building a people who are on mission for the sake of the world. -- Watch the full version on our YouTube page

Enemy love transgresses the boundary in order to be present with the other, to share with the other, to hear the other, and to seek the image of God in the other. -- Watch the full message on our YouTube channel.

A great time of connection, refreshment and friendship at our women’s retreat this weekend!

Watch the full message on our YouTube channel.

STAFF PICKS -- "My all time favourite Author is Francine Rivers. I have read most of her books but the Mark of Lion Series still remains one of the top fiction series I have ever read. It is Christian Fiction but the story is one that deeply impacted me and made me reflect on my own faith. The novels shed light on the hardships the Jewish people faced under the oppressive rule of the Romans. It takes place in the time following Christ's death and resurrection. It is such a moving story and hard to put down once you start reading!" -- Vicky Govier, Director of Children's Ministry

Youth is back! We were so excited to welcome all students in Grades 6-12 back onsite last week to kick off another great fall together. It’s time to reconnect, grow, and make amazing memories together. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead. -- Youth meets every Wednesday from 7:00-9:00pm northpark.ca/register

Are you exploring what Christianity is? Are you a new Christian? Or maybe you've been a Christian for a while, but you want to have a better understanding of the basics of Christianity? Alpha gives you the chance to talk and learn more about faith, ask questions in a safe, relaxed environment, and connect with others. -- northpark.ca/register

This year's Women's Retreat is coming up on September 28. The theme will be “Making Room for God: Embracing Stillness, Sabbath & Simplicity.” We are looking forward to this time of community building and individual growth! -- northpark.ca/register

We hope you can an event, elective, or group to engage with this fall that will help you to be more deeply formed to encounter the triune God through proclaiming and practising the living Christ together. -- More information about any of these events is available at northpark.ca/register EDIT: The time of Alpha is 7:30-8:30pm, NOT 7:00-9:00pm

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT -- Richard is one of our dedicated volunteers. Every Sunday, he and his wife Tia lead worship for our Chinese Ministry group. They’ve been such a blessing to that community with their faithful service! This past Sunday, Richard also shared his musical gifts with us at our Fall Kickoff event, helping to make it a special time for everyone. We’re so thankful for the Drews and their dedication to North Park.

Our Fall Kickoff was a fantastic start to a season of growth, joy, and community. Thanks to everyone who came out!

Our new sermon series, Jonah and the Offensive Grace of God, starts this weekend. Here's Pastor Joel with a few words about what to expect from this series.

We can't wait to see you all for our Fall Kick Off this Sunday! The event is free but registration is appreciated so we know how much food to have ready. -- Details and registration at northpark.ca/register

Thinking of all the kids, parents, teachers and caretakers starting a new school year this week. Praying that you all find inspiration, growth, and joy in every lesson, and for a year filled with curiosity, kindness, and success. May every challenge be met with strength and every achievement be celebrated with joy. Bless each and evert effort and guide their journeys with wisdom and patience.

STAFF PICK -- At its core it’s a book about God’s love for us, which is something you hear about all the time; so much so that it almost loses its meaning sometimes and is so easy to dismiss or forget. But Manning puts it in a way that helps you understand it a little more and moves you to want to live differently because of it. It’s simple and uplifting, and offers unique perspectives on what God’s love and the relationship we get to have with Him means for our lives. The author is honest, authentic, and to the point which I always appreciate. It’s straight forward and quick to read, but challenging in ways you wouldn’t expect. This book was recommended to me a few years ago at a time that I didn’t know I needed it. As a big over-thinker, it was a breath of fresh air and helped shift my perspective and decision making and I’m so grateful for the lessons I learned from it. -- Lindsey Wilcox, Media Communications & Technical Coordinator This book is available to borrow at the North Park library, open between and after services.

Prayers of confession aren't meant to be done out of fear but rather in honesty and humility. -- Watch the full message on our YouTube channel

Join us after the second service on September 8 for our Fall Kick-Off celebration in the backfield/pavilion. There will be games, activities, food, music and an ice cream truck! -- For details and registrations visit northpark.ca/register

It's the last week of day camp for this summer and we are loving having the Jr Highs here on site. Extra special thank you to our amazing interns who have been leading camps, organizing activities, and pouring into the lives of students throughout the summer.

North Park is hiring a Ministry Director/Pastor for our Discipleship, Small Groups and Newcomer Ministries. �Learn more by clicking on the job description link below. https://irp.cdn-website.com/a06aeb23/files/uploaded/2024-08_Position_Description_Discipleship_Small_Groups_Newcomer_Ministries.pdf

Jesus calls us to live in a way that's so countercultural: through submission and surrender of your life to Him. To be lifted up in the kingdom of God means to go lower; it's an act of humility. -- Watch the full message on our YouTube channel

It has been a busy and fun-filled week here at North Park! Kids mini camp is buzzing with excitement. Seeing the seeds of faith being planted in our children and the amazing camp leaders helping them learn and grow has truly been so special!

Silence and solitude is another type of prayer and drawing near to God that can be one of the most difficult for us in our busy world. -- Watch the full message on our YouTube channel.

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT -- Meet Ruby, a young leader in Children's Ministry. Ruby is an exuberant, kind and faithful leader. She loves to play and share God's love with our Toddlers on Sunday mornings. This summer Ruby is a part of our children's mini camps which is where we discovered her gift for leading worship dance moves! Ruby has just graduated from Grade 8 and already we see how God is using her to build up His Kingdom. We look forward to many years of working with her and watching her grow into the strong leader He has created her to be.

We're excited that the next phase of our north field development is underway: a concrete play pad that we'll be able to use for basketball and a variety of other activities.

InDwell is a partner of North Park and a fantastic organization that supports vulnerable adults dealing with mental health challenges, provides supportive housing solutions and seeking to provide a solution to homelessness. -- This week a North Park small group went to InDwell to host a bbq and activities for the residents. We love the way this group is modelling our core values of community, gratitude & generosity, grace, and living on mission by extending the love of Jesus beyond the walls of the church to to our community.

Do you know what God has donefor you? Do you know the love that he has poured out for you? This knowledge can impact the way that we pray. -- Watch the full sermon on our YouTube channel

Its been an awesome week of kids camp!

What do you hold on to? What can you surrender to God? We are called to surrender our lives and posessions to the kingdom of God. -- Watch the full message on our YouTube channel.

STAFF PICK -- "I chose to highlight this book, as it is an amazing example of leaning into Jesus during an unwanted, unimaginable time. Gene and Carol Kent faced a tragic event that would forever change their lives. Their only son, a 25 year old graduate of the US Naval Academy with an impeccable record and strong Christian faith, shot and killed his wife’s ex husband. Jason Kent now lives a life no one would have predicted or chosen. Carol retells the agony she experienced over this path for her son. This Isaac experience came into her life without warning, but it birthed in her and her husband a deeper intimacy with God. Through this unthinkable time their faith grew stronger, and even though life did not turn out like they had planned, they were able to find blessing in the battle and hope restored." -- Melanie Smith, Facilities Manager

This weekend, Saul and Sanna Karosas will be with us from Lithuania. There will be a few opportunities to hear from them that you don't want to miss! Saul will be guest preaching at our services on Sunday morning, continuing on in our summer sermon series on prayer. Later that evening at 7:00pm, Saul and Sanna will be hosting a Missional Conversations event, sharing their experiences and insights from ministering in Lithuania at City Church.

Our Senior's hosted their summer BBQ today! It was an afternoon filled with food, fellowship, and beautiful weather. Thank you to everyone who joined us and made it a memorable event. We are grateful for our vibrant community and look forward to more gatherings like this.

Psalm 39 is an emotional cry for God to help direct us toward what we ultimately need even when the pain of life comes crashing in. -- Watch the full message on our YouTube channel

In our moments of pain and despair, we can have confidence that God hears our prayers and is interceding for us. -- Watch the full message on our YouTube channel

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT -- Chinese Ministries is a vibrant community that worships, connects, and grows together in both Mandarin and Cantonese. Jim and Irene faithfully serve with Chinese Ministries behind the scenes taking care of all things tech, AV, and communications. Both Irene and Jim help services run smoothly on the weekends both in person and online. Irene also takes care of the Chinese Ministries website, graphics, and all things communications. These two do an amazing job ensuring the Chinese congregation experiences the love and grace of Jesus through their services and communications.

We loved celebrating our amazing volunteers this past weekend! Thank you to over 400 dedicated hearts who make ministry at North Park happen, we truly couldn't do all we do without each of you serving so faithfully.

Excited to begin our summer series on prayer! Join us throughout the summer as we look at how prayer transforms lives and strengthens faith, and as we seek to grow in our communication with God.

Women, save the date for an unforgettable women's retreat this fall on September 28. Anita will be speaking and our theme will be “Making Room for God: Embracing Stillness, Sabbath & Simplicity". We are looking forward to a time of community building and individual growth. -- northpark.ca/register

STAFF PICKS -- "I had heard about The Chosen but wasn’t initially interested in watching it until a friend recommended it. I assumed it would be just another show about Jesus, but it surprised me with its portrayal of Jesus and the people around him in such a tangible, human way. He is not a distant God. The Chosen deepened my love for Jesus, making me want to spend more time with Him and giving me a fresh understanding of the Gospels." --Janine Campos, Office Manager You can watch it for free at https://watch.thechosen.tv/

As many will be travelling over the summer months, we want to remind you that all weekly sermons are available via podcast. Stay connected, inspired, and challenged no matter where your summer takes you! Available on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Excited to announce dates for our summer half day Kids and Jr High day camps!

Humble Beginnings Nursery School is a non-profit Christian faith based, half-day nursery school program that runs out of North Park Community Church. Their new website is now live at www.humblebeginningsnurseryschool.com

Yesterday afternoon the Men's Bible Study hosted friends, family and some North Park staff for a great bbq to wrap up their time together before breaking for the summer. A great way to celebrate an awesome year of study, reflection and community.

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT -- Meet Debbie and Dennis, the leaders of Young Professionals. This year, the group (for ages 23-30) has been growing with more than 30 attending regularly, but they have also been growth in their faith. Based on the sermon series, the Ensings have been challenging the Young Professionals to apply those teachings through discussions in breakout groups. Though Young Professionals would normally take a break for the summer, members were keen to keep meeting and not lose momentum – so 7 new small groups of Young Professionals have been formed for the summer! We’re so grateful for the Ensing’s leadership, encouragement, and initiative, and for all that God is doing through them.

Suffering and hardship have a vital and important purpose. Don’t give up! Don’t walk away. Don’t lose heart.

Wrapping up our Ladies Bible Study for the summer with laughter, friendship, faith, and learning. Here's to a summer of reflection and connection until groups start up again in the fall.

Knowing North Park Understanding the DNA of our unique church.

"Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another." Hebrews 10:24-25

STAFF PICKS -- "The True Vine is Scripture dense -- a phrase by phrase study of Jesus’ teachings in John 15. Andrew Murray challenges us to “abide” in Jesus, resting completely in Him – and to bear “fruit, more fruit, much fruit, and abiding fruit” (explaining the difference between each). Murray knows this isn’t easy for us. But oh, “what life would come to us if we only consented to be branches.” Most of Murray’s (more than 250) books are written with 31 chapters of 3-4 pages each. He meant one chapter to be read each day for a month (hence the 31 chapters) and then chewed on and practiced throughout the day. He even encouraged people to tear out the pages for that day and carry them in their pockets! So his teachings are meant to be read slowly over time. They’re also deceptively simple, but are filled with wisdom and profound truth – so his books are great for both new and more mature Christians. He’s always challenging and encouraging Christians to grow to fuller maturity. I would count him as one of the top 3 people that have dramatically changed my life. Every Christian needs to read at least one book by Andrew Murray (1828-1917). More reasons to read this book? The True Vine is one of Murray’s top 3 books, has a 4.5 rating on GoodReads, it’s in the public domain so you can get it for free, and “you’ve just gotta read the dead guys” – there’s just nothing like it!" --Bev Boyd, Interim Pastor of Small Groups This book is available to borrow at the North Park library, open Sundays from 10:00-11:00am & 12:10-12:30pm

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT -- We are so grateful to have Elisee as a dedicated volunteer in Children's Ministry. He is one of the many warm and friendly faces that welcome our families and children as they walk in our doors on Sunday mornings and helps register children for their classes and answers any questions you have. He serves so faithfully and cheerfully. We are so blessed to know him and to serve with him! Thank you for everything!

The Jr High's had a great time away at their retreat this past weekend learning about spiritual practices, worshipping together, playing games, and spending time in community with one another.

Thanks to everyone who joined us Sunday night for ESL's Music and Art Night!

Congratulations to the 11 people that were baptized this past weekend. What a joy to witness this step of faith.

We invite you to join us this weekend as we celebrate this step of faith and obedience of 11 people in our North Park community. Baptism weekend is always an exciting time to witness people within our church family publicly commit their lives to Jesus.

Sunday night we hosted @donmoen @paulbaloche and @brookenicholls for an awesome worship night and fundraiser in support of IJM Canada. It was a packed house filled with great music. @ijm @ijmcanada @joashpthomas

Last month, our Missional Conversation was a great event as we heard representatives from Indwell, Sanctuary London, and Mission Services London. Together, we learned more about the pressing issue of housing insecurity in London and how each organization employs a comprehensive approach to assist those facing hardship in our city. The evening left a lasting impact, inspiring all who attended from the North Park community. Our community partners emphasized the importance of active engagement through volunteering, donations, and advocating for policy changes with local officials. They also reminded us of the significance of acknowledging the humanity of those experiencing homelessness or seeking assistance on the streets. How simple acts of eye contact and acknowledging their presence can show them that they are seen by someone. For those eager to further engage with these organizations, their websites are listed in the post. Stay tuned for more updates on this ongoing dialogue within the North Park community.

STAFF PICKS -- "I have recently completed reading John Mark Comer's book, "Practicing the Way. Be with Jesus." I have read a few of Comer's books ("The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry" and "Live No Lies") and I have found his content to be biblically sound and so practical. In "Practicing the Way", he delves into the subject of what it truly means to follow Jesus. Hint... it is not about adhering to a set of rules or joining a religion. Instead, it is about aspiring to be like Jesus and to do what he did. The content of the book challenged me to look at my own life and habits and ask, "in the way that I am living, who am I becoming? Is it more like Jesus or less?" Comer brings clarity to the often nebulus concepts of Discipleship and Spiritual Formation and outlines several practical ways to incorporate spiritual practices into your daily life. This book also contains one of the most comprehensive definitions of the "Gospel" that I have read. I highly recommend "Practicing the Way" for those who truly want to enter into the abundant life that is available through following Jesus. " --Paul McIlwraith, Pastor Emeritus This book is available to borrow at the North Park library, open Sundays from 10:00-11:00am & 12:10-12:30pm

We have a new Women's Bible Study starting April 25. Spiritual disciplines are essential to a more vibrant spiritual life and knowing God more intimately, and this 7-session Bible study by Kelly Minter will help unpack the biblical foundation for these important habits, along with approachable ways to practice these disciplines. For more information, times, and to register, visit northpark.ca/register

COMMUNITY -- Being deeply connected to one another in caring and truth-telling relationships.

@yfclondon_ is an organization that engages with youth in our community; building relationships, developing potential, and exploring faith in partnership with the community and local churches. If you're looking for a fun event to participate in as a family this is it. The money raised from this event helps support YFC London and the amazing work they do with youth in our community.

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT -- Pete and Betty serve on our visitation team, offing time and friendship to those in our community who find themselves in circumstances that make it difficult to attend services or programs. They do an incredible job of getting to know people, praying with them, and offering practical help. We are so grateful for the way that they care for others and make them feel connected during difficult seasons and circumstances.

What a joy to be led in worship by the North Park kids this weekend!

North Park Kids have been planning, rehearsing, and gearing up to bring you an extra special service this weekend: Celebrating The Empty Tomb. This will be an all-in service for the whole family as we look forward to continuing to celebrate the empty tomb and what Easter means to us as followers of Jesus. You don't want to miss it! -- In person: 9:00am & 11:00am Livestream on YouTube: 11:00am

Did you know Humble Beginnings christian-based nursery school operates out of North Park? They have spots available for the September 2024-2025 school year. -- For more information and to join the waiting list, visit https://sites.google.com/northpark.ca/humblebeginningsnurseryschool/home

He is Risen! What a weekend. It was great to have so many of you with us to celebrate this Easter.

He is risen! Join us this morning as we celebrate this Easter Sunday. -- In person: 9:00am & 11:00am Livestream on YouTube: 11:00am

Join us this morning as we reflect this Good Friday. -- In person: 9:00am & 11:00am Livestream on YouTube: 11:00am **Children's Ministry will be available for kids from birth-SK

We have almost completed the Journey to Easter and we look forward to seeing you at a service this weekend as we reflect and celebrate on all that happened at Easter and what that means for our lives.

You're invited to join us Easter weekend as we reflect on the death of Jesus on Good Friday, and celebrate His victory over death on Easter Sunday. We can't wait to see you! -- northpark.ca

As we approach Easter and approach the end of this season of fasting, it is so good to reflect on the fact that Jesus is with us no matter what we are going through. -- Follow along & download your copy now: www.northpark.ca/lent-booklet

STAFF PICKS -- "Pete Scazzero's work invites us into a deep, abiding relationship with Jesus that has the power to transform our lives, and the world. I love the way that this book encourages us to understand the profound value of slowing down in order to rest and abide in Jesus, so that we can allow the work of the Holy Spirit to shape our lives, and guide our participation in the mission of the Church. He calls us, as Christ's followers, to embrace suffering, grief, and loss in a way that brings spiritual growth and transformation, to understand our limits, weaknesses, and vulnerabilities as a gift, and to understand the profound value of slowing down seek to rest and abide in Jesus first and foremost - to take time to 'be' with God before we ever set out to 'do' things for God. This book is a wonderful resource for the church as we seek to be a community of people who love and serve the Lord out of the overflow of His grace and the power of His Spirit at work in us and through us." --Trish Haq, Pastor of Care This book is available to borrow at the North Park library, open Sundays from 10:00-11:00am & 12:10-12:30pm

We loved having the London Kids Community Gospel Choir here last week to lead worship for the North Park Seniors!