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D.S. Steve Ottley
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Listening to the Spirit in Prayer
I have been encouraged with the movement of prayer across the district. In 2018 the District Advisory Board entered a season of engaging the Lord to discern what He wanted us to focus our attention and resources on. PRAYER was the number one focus that bubbled to the top. We sensed that calling us to PRAYER and FASTING. Of course, the enemy does his best to thwart our efforts when he knows it will draw us into the centre of God’s perfect will for His Church. Praise God, many have persevered in prayer. Much of our time in prayer needs to be spent listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit.
As a boy, when my mom or dad used the full version of my first name, I knew a serious conversation was coming. “Stephen. Listen to me.” is one of the lines I remember all too well. “Stephen Benjamin!”—when I heard that, I knew I was in real trouble. The truth is, most of the conversations I remember from my childhood are the loving tender conversations my parents frequently had with us kids as we sat around the dinner table or played Yahtzee. Those were precious moments. Even those “Stephen Benjamin!” conversations stemmed from love, catching my attention, steering me away from harm.
Our heavenly Father deeply desires to have intimate, loving, tender conversations with us. He longs to commune (there’s an old word!) with His children. However, the challenge is that we live in an age of constant distractions: emails, text messages, Facebook feeds, Instagram, phone calls, 24/7 news casts. All these are at the top of a long list of communication tools at our disposal, but they often act as distractions. Despite the distractions, our heavenly Father stands ready to speak as we make ourselves available to listen. One of the roles of the Holy Spirit is that of a communicator. God’s love is His primary message. He also discloses God’s purpose and direction for His children and His church. We have a front row seat in Scripture, observing how Jesus related to the first and third persons of the Trinity. Immediately after His wilderness temptations, “Jesus returned to Galilee, filled with the Holy Spirit’s power” (Luke 4:14, NLT). He heads to His hometown, Nazareth, and begins teaching in the synagogue where He reveals what He is all about. Can you hear the voice of Jesus echoing through that hall?
“The Spirit of the LORD is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free . . .” (Luke 4:18).
Jesus recognized His purpose on earth and understood that, although “he gave up his divine privileges . . .” (Philippians 2:7a), He was empowered by the third person of the Trinity. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,” He declares. Jesus later tells His disciples He only did and said what the Father told Him to do and say. His discernment was fueled by His intimacy with His Abba. Jesus practiced spending time with His Father. Despite the intensity of the crowds pressing in to touch Him, to hear His teaching, to be healed—all very important work—Jesus “often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer” (Luke 5:16). This was Jesus’ power source—His intimacy with the Father through prayer. There Jesus received direction and power. Can you imagine those intimate moments between the Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?
As God’s children, we are invited to linger with the Triune God. Imagine that. The Creator, the Great I Am, desires to meet with us, to commune with us. He stands ready to let us know our next steps as we abide with Him. I’m finding more and more my need to be intentional about sitting with Him, stepping away from the distractions and noise around me and withdrawing to the sacred wilderness of prayer.
Isn’t it comforting to know that we can come to God with anything? “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you” (1 Peter 5:7). Even more amazing is the truth that we can also sit and listen to the Spirit of God. But learning to still our hearts and minds to listen takes practice and time. Particularly in this season of a global pandemic and so many cultural challenges, I am finding that making space to daily sit and listen to the Spirit is vital. None of us has been down this road before; in our own wisdom, we can’t know the next step in dealing with the complexities of situations we face in these days. Hearing from the Father is the only way. My Lord knows the way through the wilderness. I am learning to follow.
Allowing the Spirit to help us develop a rhythm of prayer is essential. Finding the time to sit and pause is not easy, but the benefit is our being refreshed and empowered for everyday life. Because I am so easily distracted, I have implemented some strategies that are helpful to me. While practicing the presence of God happens throughout the day, dedicating the same time each day to linger in His presence is a helpful part of my rhythm. Meditating on Scripture keeps me focused and allows the Spirit to then take my thoughts wherever He pleases. Additionally, I am rediscovering the discipline of fasting as part of my rhythm of listening.
The Spirit is eager to help us find and develop our own rhythms. The triune God stands ready to enjoy sweet communion with us and speak into our ears.
(First published in Holiness Today – Half Million Mobilization Edition)
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D.S. PICTURES OF THE MONTH
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CONNECT WORSHIP TEAM
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AMY CSOKE
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PASTOR JANI CSOKE
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CEDARDALE CHURCH BOARD
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Congratulations Pastor Grant and Karen Verdoold. The Cedardale Church Board has extended a 4 year call to Pastor Grant, who has served as Cedardale’s pastor for 10 years.
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WORSHIP AT ROSEWOOD CHINESE CHURCH
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PASTOR CLARENCE CHAN
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D.S. STEVE OTTLEY DEDICATING THE NEWLY RENOVATED FACILITY
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HACEDORES WORSHIP TEAM
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WORSHIP AT NDI GROW
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JEREMY STAVROPOULOS LEADING WORSHIP
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D.S. Mark Collins (Canada Atlantic) -
leading conversations with God
"THE ART OF LISTENING".
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N.M.I. President,
Rev. Donna Wilson
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Dear Friends of NMI
As we look forward to a new church, thank you for your participation and advancement of missions, over 2021-22! I look forward to District Convention (details below) where we will come together virtually!
1Cor 15:58 says, Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
We continue to pray for ministers and church leaders around the world, who are serving in global and local missions. Although, opportunities for missions, service to the Lord, and places of worship have adjusted with the restrictions, with the Lord’s help, His people have remained faithful and fruitful, knowing God is always at work, and we join Him in the labour.
Prayer
Please pray for the Ukraine and the nearby countries affected by the conflict. Please pray for Pastors and missionaries in this area, as they respond to the crisis.
Please see NCM for opportunities to give to the needs there.
Alabaster - This offering can be collected through the year, and submitted!
Be encouraged by this video!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vakc2c3227Q
Over $2.29 million USD were donated to Alabaster last year and are used in all six global regions. Thank you for giving!
Fall Deputation 2022 - October 9-16th
please mark your calendars, and reach out to Bev to book a service with the Manswell's!
(Total giving for 2021 Deputation $5435! Praise God!!)
Email Updates - NMI Central is the new “Prayer Mobilization Line” weekly emphasis! Global NMI will send prayer requests and updates to our inboxes. Link: https://t.e2ma.net/message/8surjg/4la0lau Or let the council know if you need help signing up!
Half Million Mobilization!
Call to prayer in USA/Can - 40 Days of prayer until Pentecost
https://usacanadaregion.org/pray
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Half - Million Mobilization
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Pastor Gaston and Lucy have been approved by Nazarene Global Missions as Sponsored Missionaries to Spain in the Eurasia Region. In early 2022, they will began pastoring in Polígono Norte en Sevilla, Spain on a 2-year assignment.
- Email transfer: churchofthenazarenecanada@ gmail.com
- Pre-authorized Debit or void cheque for 24 months to “Church of the Nazarene Canada”
- Or cheque to “Church of the Nazarene Canada” mail to: 3657 Ponytrail Dr, Mississauga, On L4X 1Y2
Memo: please include with your donation: “DEPUTATION GIVING-ECHEGUIA
Thank you for your generous support.
God bless you.
UPDATE: Update: The District Council sent $1000.00 to the Echeguia’s deputation fund, towards their service in Spain, as sponsored missionaries from CCD!
We invite churches and individuals to support Pastor Gaston and Lucy through your prayers, by inviting them to speak at your church or at an online event, and by giving towards funding their mission to Spain. CLICK HERE for more information.
To give, please follow these instructions:
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Regional USA/Canada Vision
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ATTENTION CANADIAN DONORS
Reminder:
To receive a tax receipt for your donation,
all funds must be sent through our National Office in accordance with Canadian Tax laws.
If you would like to make a donation in response to
"Ukraine Crisis" you can do the following:
Mail: Church of the Nazarene Canada
3657 Ponytrail Drive, Mississauga, ON L4X 1W5
Memo: "ACM1198 – Ukraine Crisis"
Tel: 1-888-808-7490 / 905-602-8220 Ext 2 (Yara)
Online: https://www.ncmcanada.ca/disaster-response
Please *Specify: "ACM1198 – Ukraine Crisis"
E-Transfer: churchofthenazarenecanada@gmail.com
Message: "ACM1198 – Ukraine Crisis"
(Be sure to send your name and mailing address to receive a tax receipt)
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Next Course: History and Polity of the Church of the Nazarene
Join us this spring for History and Polity of the Church of the Nazarene with Rev. Donna Wilson.
Cost is $300. Scholarships are available upon request.
6 class sessions will take place via Zoom on Thursdays, 7:00-10:00p.m. beginning on May 12.
For more information contact dmtc.director@centralnazarene.ca
Courses may be taken for audit at half price (no homework). Clergy from Canada Central District may take courses for free and count hours towards lifelong learning.
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Are you, or is someone you know called to ministry? The DMTC is a great place to explore aspects of Christian ministry and to gain a strong foundation for ministry in the church and in the world. Courses are open to those pursuing a vocational call to ministry, and to those who simply want to have more knowledge and skills for serving God in their local churches and communities.
To apply, contact Pastor Tammy at dmtc.director@centralnazarene.ca
Website: https://dmtcdirector.wixsite.com/dmtc
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Marg Stahlbaum - District Youth Director
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The Eswatini bound container was loaded and is now on its way to arrive the first week of July. The GO Team will unpack it on July 4th and distribute to several schools, 5 pre-schools, and 2 orphanages. Pastoral resources, medical devices, clothing and items for a refuge for women and girls that have been rescued from human trafficking will be distributed by NCM Eswatini. If you would still like to support GO Team 2022:
- Red Pens
- Blue Pens
- Scissors
- Erasers
- Rulers
- Pencils
If you have any of the above, please contact Marg Stahlbaum via email: margstahlbaum@gmail.com
ITEMS STILL COLLECTING:
For rural primary schools:
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Youth Day Retreat: May 28, 2022
THRIVE! Day Youth Retreat, May 28th at Circle Square Ranch
Early Bird registration: $50/student includes 2 snacks & 2 meals; options to choose from are horseback riding, climbing tower, high ropes and archery. Our speaker is Pastor Andrew Brown and worship will be led by Jeremy Stavropoulos! Watch your emails for registration packages!
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NYC 2023
Information for NYC’23 will be coming out soon! Keep checking Facebook and Instagram to get the latest details!
https://www.nazareneyouthconference.com/
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Discipleship Place Youth Training:
Many of us have become Youth Leaders or Sponsors in our local church because we enjoy spending time with them. However, many of us haven’t had a chance to take a some courses for Best Practices in Youth Ministry.
Discipleship Place (discipleshipplace.org) provides some online course to do just that! Let’s do them together!
Let’s focus on Best Practices in Youth Ministry. These courses will help you gain insight into best practices for youth ministry for the local church. Each week, we will discuss the two sessions you would have done on your own. Each session takes about 20-25 minutes to complete.
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KENNEDY ROAD CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE
Our church's daycare, Kiddy Kare is seeking a candidate who wants to gain experience in a childcare setting. The candidate must be between the ages of 16 and 30-years old seeking experience in a Daycare environment. Applicants must hold a valid CPR and First Aid Certification, along with Vulnerable Sector Screening.
Summer July 4-to Sept 2, 2022; 8 hours a day including a 1 hour non paid lunch
Salary: $15.00 per hour
Submit resume to kiddykare@bellnet.ca
Applications will be accepted until May 30, 2022
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Annual District Assembly
Assembly Zoom Business Session
9:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Auxiliaries Conventions
Zoom Business Session
12:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Ordination Service
7:00 p.m.
District Assembly and Conventions Business – Delegates will meet by Zoom and the session will be live streamed on the District YouTube Channel. The District App will be used for reports and voting.
Ordination Service – This will be an In-Person service at our Toronto Rosewood Church. Current Provincial building attendance capacity and guidelines will be followed.
District Family Reunion Service – On Sunday, June 12th, we will host a District Online Family Reunion Service. The pre-recorded service will be provided to all our local churches to use that Sunday and will be streamed on the District YouTube Channel at 3:00 p.m.
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We are grateful for the gifts and talents that God has place in pastors and people on our district. Pastor Shireen Spencer shares the following news.
- Her latest book, My Prayer For You—365 Days of Heartfelt Prayers and Meditations,” was released on April 30th. CLICK HERE
- Her first song, “I Choose Joy,” will be released soon. CLICK HERE
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Upcoming DS. Schedule
Please pray for God’s anointing and wisdom for D.S. Steve Ottley
May 1 st – Online Pastor’s Prayer Gathering – Zoom 8:00 a.m.
May 1 st – Toronto Rosewood Chinese Church Worship/Building Dedication
– Toronto @ 11:00 a.m.
May 1 st – Hacedores de Historia Worship – Toronto @ 4:00 p.m.
May 1 st – NDI Pentecost Prayer– Zoom 8:00 p.m.
May 2 nd – Sonlife Board Meeting – Zoom 9:00 a.m.
May 4 th – Golden Horseshoe Zone Pastor’s Meeting
- Hamilton Crown Point Church @ 10:30 a.m.
May 4 th – Grace @ The Sharing Place Annual General Meeting – Zoom @ 6:30 p.m.
May 5 th – Online Pastor’s Prayer Gathering – Zoom @ 10:00 a.m.
May 7 th – NDI GROW – Toronto Rosewood Church @ 9:00 a.m.
May 8 th – NDI Pentecost Prayer– Zoom 8:00 p.m.
May 10 th – District Finance Committee Meeting – Zoom @ 6:30 p.m.
May 11 th – District Secretary’s Meeting – District Office
May 12 th – District NMI Council Meeting – Zoom @ 7:00 p.m.
May 15 th – Kolapore Calvary Worship – 9:00 a.m.
May 15 th – Markdale Worship – 11:30 a.m.
May 15 th – NDI Pentecost Prayer– Zoom 8:00 p.m.
May 17 th – DMTC Board Meeting – Zoom @ 7:00 p.m.
May 18 th – District Advisory Board Meeting
– Oakville Generations Church @ 10:30 a.m.
May 19 th – Toronto Main Streat Annual Meeting @ 7:30 p.m.
May 22 nd – Woodstock Faith Worship @ 10:30 a.m.
May 22 nd– NDI Pentecost Prayer– Zoom 8:00 p.m.
May 24 th – NYI Council Meeting – Zoom 8:00 p.m.
May 25 th – GTA Missional Zone Pastor’s Meeting – Zoom @ 11:00 a.m.
May 25 th – Canadian D.S. Meeting – Zoom @ 12:00 Noon
May 27 th – Pastor Nathanael Leonard’s Wedding – Orlean, N.Y.
May 28 th – District NYI Retreat – Circle Square Ranch
May 29 th– NDI Pentecost Prayer– Zoom 8:00 p.m.
May 31 st – June 3 rd – Indigenous Ministry Trip to Mishkeegogamang
June 5 th – Quinte West Worship @ 10:30 a.m.
June 9 th – Day with G.S. Dr. David Busic
June 10 th – Annual District Assembly
June 12 th – Toronto Rosewood Worship @ 11:00
June 12 th – District Family Reunion Service – Online @ 3:00 p.m.
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DISTRICT SCHEDULE
Updated May 1 st
Sunday, May 1 st – Local Church Congregations Half Million Mobilization Prayer Day
Sunday, May 1 st – Online Pastor’s Prayer Gathering – Zoom 8:00 a.m.
Sunday, May 1 st – NDI Pentecost Prayer– Zoom 8:00 p.m.
Monday, May 2 nd – Tuesday, May 3 rd – Alpha Leadership Conference – Online
Wednesday, May 4 th – Golden Horseshoe Zone Pastor’s Meeting
– Hamilton Crown Point Church @10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, May 4 th – Grace @ The Sharing Place Annual General Meeting
– Zoom @ 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 5 th – Online Pastor’s Prayer Gathering – Zoom @ 10:00 a.m.
Thursday, May 5 th – Ambrose University Pastor’s Conference
@ 11:00 a.m. (9:00 a.m. Mountain Time)
Saturday, May 7 th – NDI GROW – Toronto Rosewood Church @ 9:00 a.m.
Sunday, May 8 th – NDI Pentecost Prayer– Zoom 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, May 10 th – District Finance Committee Meeting – Zoom @ 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, May 11 th – District Secretary’s Meeting – District Office
Thursday, May 12 th – District NMI Council Meeting – Zoom @ 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 15 th – NDI Pentecost Prayer– Zoom 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, May 17 th – DMTC Board Meeting – Zoom @ 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, May 18 th – District Advisory Board Meeting
– Oakville Generations Church @ 10:30 a.m.
Sunday, May 22 nd – NDI Pentecost Prayer– Zoom 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, May 24 th – NYI Council Meeting – Zoom 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday, May 25 th – GTA Missional Zone Pastor’s Meeting
– Brampton Church @ 11:00 a.m.
Saturday, May 28 th – District NYI Retreat
– Circle Square Ranch @ 9:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 29 th – NDI Pentecost Prayer– Zoom 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, June 2 nd – Online Pastor’s Prayer Gathering – Zoom 12:00 Noon
Sunday, June 5 th – Online Pastor’s Prayer Gathering – Zoom 8:00 a.m.
Sunday, June 5 th – NDI Pentecost Prayer– Zoom 8:00 p.m.
Friday, June 10 th – Annual District Assembly
Tuesday, June 14 th – Spanish Missional Zone Pastor’s Meeting – TDB @ 10:00 a.m.
Wednesday, June 22 nd– Board of Ministry Studies Committee Meeting
– Zoom @ 10:00 a.m.
Thursday, July 14 th – All Canada Pastor’s Meeting – Zoom @ 12:00 Noon
Sunday, July 24 th– Sunday, July 31 st – Riverview Family Camp
Thursday, August 4 th – Friday, August 5 th – Global Leadership Summit – Online
Sunday, October 9 th – Sunday, October 16 th – The Manswell’s Deputation Tour
Friday, June 9 th – Friday, June 16 th, 2023
– General Assembly – Indianapolis, Indiana |
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We love to hear what is happening in the churches of our district! If your church has pictures or news to submit for the next edition of IN THE LOOP, please send them in to support@centralnazarene.ca by the last Wednesday of the month! |
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Remember to visit our website at www.centralnazarene.ca. We will be keeping the calendar and site up to date, so please check there for information. If you have any questions or concerns about the website or newsletter, please contact support@centralnazarene.ca
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