 I just want to share updates about what has been going on with the Fellowship over the past few months. This is an exciting time to be part of the FEBC, and there is much to share! Rebecca Meyer has resigned as our Fellowship Focus Editor, as life changes have made it too difficult to continue. We will miss Rebecca greatly, as she has been an asset to our team! Rebecca has not only proven to be a capable writer and editor, but she also helped us transition from a paper magazine to online-only, which involved a complete renovation of our website. Rebecca will continue to help until our new Focus Editor is up to speed. We wish Rebecca well and pray God’s blessing on her family. Our new Fellowship Focus Editor is Sarah Stutler. Sarah has the experience and ability to do very well in this role, and I trust her work will embody both literary and artistic excellence. Sarah also grew up within the FEBC. Her father is our Ministries Coordinator, and her grandfather is a previous FEBC President. With that pedigree, I believe she will truly bring a passion about the subject matter she is covering. Welcome Sarah! Connect25 was a big success! There was a true feeling of connection and mutual care, and our Keynote Speaker, Mark Clifton, challenged us in many ways to refocus our local church ministries on Jesus Christ and his work. We were encouraged, challenged, and refreshed. I had two conversations with first timers (both lay people, one from Canada and one from the US) who stated that they were really surprised at how much they enjoyed Connect. I hope you will consider attending next year. We will be meeting at Salem Church in Waldheim, SK on July 9-11, 2026. I will be sharing my “State of the Fellowship” address in a separate article, so I do not want to go into too much detail here, but our Fellowship was incredibly blessed last year. The cooperation between member churches and our Fellowship seems to be rising each year, and both churches and individuals have responded to our financial needs. In FY2025, we budgeted to spend about $60,000 from unrestricted reserves to pay our expenses. Instead, we gained about $14,000 in unrestricted reserves. This is the first time we have seen a net positive in many years. We praise God for his provision and thank you for your faithfulness in giving to support this ministry. There is still a need for additional support. Ministries Coordinator support is at 76%, so we still have a little way to go. Overall, we are projecting to draw about $50,000 from our unrestricted reserves in FY2026. But we trust God to fill that gap once again! Another area of praise: For the past few years, I have been asking that each of us consider if we know other churches who might be a good fit for our Fellowship and try to engage them in a conversation. Today, I know of seven churches that are at least considering whether they might affiliate with us in the future. Some are very serious, and others are very early in the process. Please pray that God will grant discernment to these churches and to us. Our Project Offering for Connect25 is to pay for repairs to the main conference room at Springs of Life camp in Spain after it was severely damaged by flooding. We are still accepting donations through the end of August, but it looks like we will be close to our goal of $15,000 (USD). I am so grateful that the people and churches of our Fellowship are generous and sensitive to ministry needs around the world. At Connect25, we said farewell (for now) to Richard Colegrove, who has served as a US Director for many years. He has reached his term limit, and must now take at least one year off, but we trust he will return. We are very grateful for Richard’s service to this organization. The delegates elected Rev. Bryan Conrad (Henderson, NE) as a new US Director. We welcome Bryan! Please pray for all the FEBC Directors as they strive to serve your churches well. We also recognized the contributions of Rev. Paul and Carol Carpenter. The Carpenters will be retiring in October after serving at Jansen Bible Church for nearly 37 years! Both Paul and Carol have served as leaders within our Fellowship, and we are very grateful for their faithfulness in ministry. These are just a few of the things going on within our Fellowship. For more, check out the following articles: Fellowship Views, Connect25 AGM Update, 2025 State of the Fellowship Address.
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 We are busy preparing for Connect25, which will be held at Crosspoint Bible Church in Omaha, NE July 10-12. Registrations are now open! Please check out the details here: Connect25
Our Ministries Coordinator, Gary Krehbiel, continues to offer our FEBC Fusion event at churches around the Fellowship, to rave reviews. If your congregation would enjoy an evening of fun and fellowship while learning a bit more about the FEBC, contact us for more information.
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An Ode to the “Rope Holders”4/11/2025  “So, what are you young people doing?” My future wife, Wendy, and I were standing in the lunch lineup at the annual missions conference at Briercrest Bible Institute. We were greatly encouraged that a pleasant elderly couple took the time and interest to befriend a couple of young people totally unknown to them. Like us, Archie and Grace McCaskell had driven many hours to attend the conference. We explained that we hoped to get married, and then work towards serving the Lord on the mission field. We learned that they lived on a farm near Redvers, Saskatchewan. They told us to be sure to come and visit them. And so began a decades-long friendship, paused only when the Lord Jesus in His wisdom and time called His faithful servants home to be with Himself forever. What especially impressed us about Archie and Grace was their unselfish love and interest in others. We could see Jesus in them! In Philippians 2:20, Paul wrote about his beloved Timothy, “For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare.” Archie and Grace sincerely loved and cared for others. They never possessed great earthly riches, but they freely shared with others of the treasures they did have. For Wendy and me, that was a source of encouragement and strength. They became part of our team of prayer warriors and rope holders. Who or what is a rope holder? The concept is taken from Acts 9:23–25 as Paul was delivered from those seeking his life in Damascus. These friends delivered him by lowering him through the wall in a large basket (presumably using ropes). Before William Carey, the father of modern missions, left for India, he told his friends, “Saving souls can be likened to a man drowning in a deep well and a volunteer can do nothing unless there are people who will hold the rope for him to be lowered till he reaches the drowning man, and then pull them up to safety.” Carey added, “I will go to India as a volunteer to seek sinners drowning in the well of sin. But I can’t do it alone. I need rope-holders. Will you be my rope-holders?”  The Character of the Rope HolderWhat helped shape Archie and Grace so that they became such beautiful rope holders? A few glimpses from their lives will help us understand their success. In fact, these glimpses reveal that it was not in their own strength they lived and served, but through their Savior and Lord Jesus Christ. As they steadfastly submitted to the often difficult circumstances the Lord allowed, Archie and Grace increasingly became conformed to His image. Our first glimpse is from World War 2. Archie and Grace had married, but the distance of war separated them as Archie served overseas. While he was in Europe, their son Keith was born. When Archie finally returned, Grace and young Keith met Archie at the railway station. When Keith saw his dad for the first time, he enthusiastically ran towards him and shouted out, “Daddy, daddy!” How could he do that, when he had never even seen his dad? Only because his loving mom had through faithful prayers instilled in their young boy a love for the dad he now was about to meet for the first time. No doubt, she had also shown him a picture or two many, many times. Grace and Keith had faithfully prayed for their loved one. That quality of keeping the memory alive is rope holding at its finest! As Wendy and I served overseas and in Canada we were privileged to benefit from the same quality of commitment and obedience to the Lord. The McCaskells lived in a small and simple farmhouse, a little more than 6 miles west of Redvers. A powerful glimpse revealing the hardships they at times endured is when, during a particularly harsh winter, their dear Redvers friends, Carl and Mary, decided to drive out to the isolated farm for a visit. They did so in late February or early March. When they arrived, Archie and Grace told them, “You are the first people we have seen since Christmas!” We conclude that the character of Archie and Grace was not developed in a vacuum, but as the Lord tenderly guided them through both joys and hardships… The farm thrived, and so did the McCaskells’ involvement in church. Well into retirement years, they served faithfully in the local church and through home groups. They took Bible correspondence courses, as they wanted to continue to grow in the knowledge of Jesus and His Word. And, they continued to help Keith and the family on the farm. On one precious visit Wendy and I were even privileged to help out with the potato harvest! In the years leading up to Wendy and I departing for the mission field (and while we were home on furlough), Archie and Grace continued to encourage us. They helped arrange so that we could speak in local churches and at home meetings. They supported us financially and through their faithful prayers. Even though my family to this day can’t see or know the full impact of those prayers, I am sure it was considerable. Archie and Grace helped hold the ropes, for which we are eternally grateful. We were the beneficiaries of that faithfulness which by the Lord so carefully had been honed during the preceding often challenging decades.  Holding FastFollowing our service on the mission field and some further studies, our family served in a church not far from Redvers. Of course it was through Archie and Grace we had come in contact with the church in Maryfield. Again we benefited from their faithfulness. And because we lived nearby we could be there when the Heavenly Father in His wisdom decided that it was time to call His servants home to heaven. We were honored to visit Archie in Redvers Hospital, shortly before his home-going. Even though he was quite weak, he was clearly encouraged when I said to him, “At this point, you may be physically frail, but that light of the Lord in your eyes still shines brightly!” How encouraging to see a godly man finish well! Some years later Grace joined her husband in the heavenly mansions. At Archie’s funeral service I read a Bible passage reflecting his deep love for the Word of God. The passage, Psalm 119:30–35, describes well his life of dedication and obedience, and why he and his precious Grace were able to serve as such steadfast prayer warriors and rope holders.
 Wendy & Hans Elgby A Rope Holder’s LegacyThis article is not written just to remember and honor Archie and Grace, but also to see what lessons we can learn from them. We must beware lest our fast paced and secular world rob us of the true riches and service such as Archie and Grace clearly had found. The Lord lovingly shaped and guided this fine couple. Jesus lived in and through them. Archie and Grace remained faithful through both joy and at times deep personal sorrow. They continued to look beyond their own sphere, to see how they could be used by the Lord to be a blessing to others. The challenge for us then must be to seek to emulate them. Let us also take a genuine interest in others. Let us live for more than what benefits just us. Let us live to be a blessing in the lives of both friends and strangers. Under the Lord, let us make and take opportunities to minister. We certainly should do this for the sake of others, but ultimately so that Jesus Christ may be honored and glorified. For both those hoping to serve the Lord on the mission field and for the rope holders, may we not neglect the basic disciplines of the Christian life but be faithful in prayer, Bible study, hospitality, and giving. “Only one life, ’twill soon be past. Only what’s done for Christ will last.” 
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  A call is heard from far away From over sea and land Of lives expiring every day Like an hourglass of sand. To the ears of our hearts They call without words, From the world’s farthest parts They’re desperate to be heard. With broken souls and hungry bones They cry for what they do not know; With blind eyes and hearts of stone Day by day their needs grow. They don’t just need water, But they crave the Water of Life The orphan and slave made son and daughter, They’re craving peace an end to strife. You know what they crave Though they do not; From heaven to cradle to cross then cave One man, one God their lives He bought. Only the Way, the Truth, the Life Only this God, this sacrificial Man Can bring relief to their souls and end their strife; Will you hear their call and be His hand? How will they learn what they do not know? How will they hear if we do not go? Go. Make. TeachAnd Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. – Matthew 28:18-20 Go—it can be a scary word sometimes, but it is what we are called to do.
We are called to go. Go to people who long for something more, to people who are broken, to people who are lost. We are called to go to those far away and those nearby because they are all far away from the kingdom and the kingdom is what they need. We are called to go, and we are called to make. To make broken hearts whole, empty bellies full, and wounded bodies mended. We are called to make an orphan beloved, a sinner a saint, and a lost one found. To make disciples of wandering souls. We are called to go, to make, and to teach. To teach the blind to see and the deaf to hear and dead to rise. We are called to teach the beloved to love, the saints to forgive, and the found to find. Go. Make. Teach—tasks that would be impossible for us to do on our own. But we are never alone. Jesus has filled us with the Holy Spirit and He will be with us, helping us and guiding us, until the end of the age when Christ returns. So, we never have to be afraid to go. We never have to be afraid to make. We never have to be afraid to teach. Let us therefore go and make and teach in the Name of Christ who commissioned us. Tags:
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Resources: Here to Help4/11/2025  One way in which we strengthen our churches is by supporting the elders of each church. This is done in many ways, but here are a few examples: Formal resources, including:
Informal engagements to review ministry philosophy, vision and mission, administrative issues, developing governing documents, and much more. Direct support for issues that come up in the church, including theological questions, conflicts, growth consultation, etc. In short, your elders have a team of seasoned ministry leaders that can help when they need assistance. This is part of the mutual support and encouragement our Fellowship provides. Check out a more complete list of resources here: FEBC Church Resources, but remember that we are willing to talk about any situation at all. Don’t hesitate to contact Gary, Kevin, or the FEBC Office.  Tags:
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Faith & Responsibility4/11/2025  Lately, as my due date draws nearer, I’ve been thinking a lot about the new responsibilities I will need to learn to shoulder as a mother. Not just shoulder, but fully own with grace, even in the face of the increased stress that comes with parenthood. Becoming a mother feels all the more daunting when I look at the amazing women in my life and the examples they have set as patient, joyful, and deeply loving mothers, seemingly filled to the brim with the Holy Spirit and the gifts He brings. I am so incredibly blessed to have a support system full of godly mothers who are not only wonderful examples to look to and learn from, but also attentive and encouraging friends who will walk alongside Cayden and me as we navigate becoming new parents. When I begin to overthink the parenting hurdles surely ahead—and dwell on the increasing sinfulness of our society and the pressures that Christian parents will inevitably face—these women have already helped center me. They gently bring me back around to the hope, peace, and joy found in God’s Word. One of the most profound responsibilities that has been weighing on my heart lately is the role parents play in the spiritual development and well-being of their children. As I’ve considered what this truly means, I’ve also found myself reflecting on the women and mothers in my life who have set such a strong example for me. What sets them apart, I’ve realized, is not just how they parent, but how seriously they have always taken their calling as believers. Long before they became mothers, they were committed to boldly sharing the Word and love of Christ with those around them. In contrast, I’ve had to confront the fact that I’ve never been that great at boldly sharing my faith or actively seeking out opportunities to witness. Too often, I’ve let the fear of rejection or the discomfort of confrontation keep me silent. I’ve been worried about the responsibilities I will hold as a parent, all while neglecting the responsibilities I already hold as a Christian. Jesus' words in the Great Commission come to mind: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20, New International Version). This isn’t a suggestion, it’s a commission. It’s a direct charge given to all of us who follow Christ. We need to take this call seriously. As believers, we are not meant to live in stagnation. The Christian life is not passive. It’s not enough to simply be “good people” or attend church regularly. We are called to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13–16, NIV). That requires movement, intention, and engagement. It requires that we not only talk about our faith but live it out in a way that others can see and be drawn to Christ through us. When I started to view parenting through this lens, everything changed. The thought of being responsible for sharing and showing the love and teachings of Christ with my daughter began to feel less intimidating and more like a privilege. If I’m already living out my faith daily (witnessing to others, serving joyfully, seeking Christ earnestly) then parenting won’t be a dramatic shift. It will simply be an extension of the life I’m already striving to live in Christ. Parenting will still have its challenges, no doubt. But when the foundation is a life already built on the love and truth of Jesus, the task of raising a child to know and love Him feels less like a mountain to climb and more like a continuation of the journey I’m already on. My hope and prayer for you, is that you will embrace your responsibilities as a believer, not as burdens, but as blessings. Whether you are a parent or not, the call remains the same: share Christ with boldness, live out His love with consistency, and see every opportunity to witness as a gift. When we understand that God has called each of us to be messengers of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18–20, NIV), it changes how we see our everyday lives. What once felt like a duty now becomes a privilege.
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The Restoration4/11/2025  Most people reading this article already know the story well. God gave Adam and Eve perfection. They chose self over obedience, and the world was plunged into rebellion, chaos, pain, despair, illness, and more. God taught us through Israel that He is holy and righteous, and that we are not. And so, as Paul put it in Romans 8, all of creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth. I love the imagery Paul uses. Childbirth is at once one of the most painful, torturous things to endure and one of the most beautiful scenes to unfold. The experience is horrible, but the result is amazing new life. And that is what God has been working out through the ages. Our lives can be difficult, messy, and downright horrible at times. But out of the messiness of our broken world, God is bringing about the most beautiful thing. It is restoration. God is restoring us to the state he intended all along - perfection in his presence for eternity. As Paul continues in Romans 8:24, “we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies” (ESV). Our bodies will be restored. Our minds will be restored. Every damaged or broken part of our being, mentally, physically, or emotionally, will be restored to perfection. Paul says it is in this hope that we are saved. Easter is our biggest holiday because the Easter story provides that hope. When we could not do enough to achieve righteousness, God sent his only son to be righteous on our behalf. When we could not pay enough to atone for our sins, Jesus paid the price with his own life. When we could not muster the strength to defeat death and the grave, God raised Jesus from death to life - the resurrection that paves the way for all who believe in him. We don’t have to be good enough. We don’t have to pay the debt. We don’t have to be strong enough. Jesus became all those things for us. Now we only have to believe in Jesus Christ for our salvation. That is a story most of us know well, but it is also still the most powerful story ever told. Easter can easily get muddied up, between bunnies and chocolate, dresses and hats, hunting eggs, and even fancy church services. It is a great time to invite someone to church, and a great time for churches to do special things. But amid all of this, I hope we are telling ourselves, telling one another, and telling those visitors the story of restoration. When I think about Paul’s illustration of birth pains, I think of that moment in most couples’ experience when the soon-to-be mother looks at her husband and says, “It’s time!” She knows that new life is imminent, and so they grab their pre-packed bag, jump in the car and rush to the hospital. If, as Paul said, all of creation has been groaning in the pains of childbirth since the fall of man, I think the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, our Messiah, seems like the moment when God said: “It’s time.” And from that moment, we should be doing everything we can to prepare with urgency - like the parents on their way to the hospital. Our hope is on the horizon. That new birth is coming. Let’s approach this Easter with urgency. It is not just about the pageants and the songs and the food and the family gatherings. It is about the promised restoration of all things. God has called us to invite those around us to participate in this restoration. The best Easter celebration cannot compare to the celebration that is coming! Praise God, and Happy Easter!
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Mission Focus: Connect254/11/2025  As we look forward to the summer of 2025, an exceptional opportunity awaits our Fellowship: Connect25, scheduled for July 10–12, 2025, at Crosspoint Bible Church in Omaha, Nebraska. This gathering embodies our commitment to uniting believers, sharing knowledge, and equipping one another to fulfill our mission more effectively. Why Attend Connect25?Connect25 is more than just an event; it's a pivotal moment for our Fellowship to come together, strengthen bonds, and enhance our collective ministry efforts. The event's motto, "Connecting you with people, information, and resources to do ministry better," encapsulates its core purpose. Whether you are a seasoned church leader, a ministry volunteer, or someone passionate about growing the Church, Connect25 offers a space to be encouraged, sharpened, and sent out better equipped for the work God has called us to do. In an age where ministry can feel increasingly complex, isolating, and challenging, Connect25 provides the kind of relational and spiritual fuel we all need to move forward in faith. Anchored in Our MissionAt the heart of the Fellowship of Evangelical Bible Churches is a commitment to the Great Commission found in Matthew 28 —the calling to make disciples of all nations. We believe that every member of every church has a crucial role to play in proclaiming the Gospel and building up the body of Christ. Our Fellowship exists to join hands to strengthen His church. That means we walk together, support one another, and help one another grow—not only in ministry effectiveness but in personal spiritual maturity. Events like Connect25 are a tangible expression of this mission. They provide opportunities to:
Come Ready to Be RenewedThis summer, don't miss the chance to step away from the daily grind of ministry to be refreshed, re-centered, and re-ignited. Whether you’re in a season of growth, transition, or simply seeking clarity, Connect25 is designed with you in mind.
Connect25 represents a significant opportunity for personal growth, communal strengthening, and enhanced ministry effectiveness. By attending, you’re not only investing in your personal growth—you’re contributing to the collective strength of the Church. You're saying "yes" to unity, to shared purpose, and to the Great Commission. You're joining hands with others in the Fellowship to do the work Christ has called us to, better together. Let us gather to be inspired, to be challenged, and to be sent back out—better prepared to strengthen His church wherever He has placed us. To learn more and register, please visit the Connect25 page. We can’t wait to connect with you in Omaha this July! Tags:
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 Around the world, millions of people are dying without ever having heard the good news that simple trust in Jesus will guarantee them a home in heaven. The task seems overwhelming. Obviously, no one person can do it all, nor should they even try. In 3 John there are some verses that give a hint to how God wants the work to be done. The Apostle John writes, Beloved, it is a faithful thing you do in all your efforts for these brothers, strangers as they are, who testified to your love before the church. You will do well to send them on their journey in a manner worthy of God. For they have gone out for the sake of the name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles. Therefore, we ought to support people like these, that we may be fellow workers for the truth. (Vv. 5-8 ESV) The work is meant to be shared. We share in the ministry when we share in the burden of living and ministry expenses. If we share in the responsibilities of the work, we will also share in the reward at the end. The “good and faithful servant” commendation will be our reward as we support those who go out. I read somewhere that in the military, it takes about 37 people in support roles for every person in the battlefield. Just like there are many ways this support staff works to support those on the front lines, there are many ways to support global partners. An entire book, Serving as Senders, by Neal Pirolo, has been written that could be used as a handbook for the support ministries of the church. Sharing in the financial aspect of the work is not the only way to share in the ministry. Prayer also plays a big part in sharing the burdens. As we encourage global partners through prayer, we also encourage global partners through communication. We share the burden of the work as we communicate with them. The Apostle Paul often commends the people he is writing to for their generosity in making his ministry possible. He commends them for giving, for their hospitality, for their prayers and for their encouragement. All of these things make the one sent stronger and more energetic in their work. God promises that the people who do these things will share in the work and share in the reward. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered. – Proverbs 11:25 ESV You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many. – 2 Corinthians 1:11 ESV The final chapters in many of Paul’s epistles are rich in the simple things people have done for him which encouraged him in the ministry, encouraged him to continue on. These people shared in his ministry and will be rewarded.
The people in the featured image are sharing in the joy of a ministry as they receive word from their partners abroad. They share in this joy because they have contributed in some meaningful way to that ministry, whether it was financial support, prayers, letters of encouragement, just showing an interest in the work and keeping up with what is going on. Then, when they hear news from that partner, they share in the joy of progress and would share equally in sadness of setbacks or trials the partner is enduring. Becoming meaningfully involved with a global partner greatly increases a person's interest in the ministry and provides the conduit to share in the rewards of the ministry. Tags:
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From Generation to Generation2/5/2025  Below are the deaths, births and weddings that occurred across our congregations since our last published issue. During these major events, and always, we will proclaim His praise. Crosspoint Bible Church, (Omaha, Nebraska)
Dalmeny Bible Church (Dalmeny, Saskatchewan)
Jansen Bible Church (Jansen, Nebraska)
Langham Evangelical Bible Church (Langham, Saskatchewan
Martensville Mission Church (Martensville, Saskatchewan)
Stuartburn Gospel Chapel (Stuartburn, Manitoba)
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Church News (Jan/Feb 2025)2/5/2025  Crosspoint Bible ChurchAs we look back on 2024 with gratitude and ahead to 2025 with eager anticipation, we are reminded that God is truly at work among us, regularly revealing His possibilities and promises. November and December were a time of fellowship, service, and celebration. The Crosspoint women held their annual Friendsgiving on November 14, inviting friends to enjoy food, laughter, and the Gospel message. Also in November, we once again participated in Operation Christmas Child, packing more than 150 boxes for this vital ministry. On December 12, the Ladies’ Christmas Tea featured speaker Susie Edgar, who shared her experience of God’s care during a season of great upheaval in her life and family. Our Advent sermon series focused on the book of John. On December 15, our Sunday morning Christmas program, “A Morning at the Manger,” reminded all who attended of the hope found in the gift of Jesus. Special music and narration during the program, followed by refreshments in the foyer, made for a particularly meaningful morning. Now, as we move forward, Spring will soon be upon us, reminding us of renewal—not only in God’s creation but also in our hearts. May we embrace the coming months with a humble recognition of all that God offers us each day. Julie Sibert, Correspondent Dalmeny Bible ChurchChristmas events were a ladies Christmas potluck and dessert supper with carol singing and a skit; a program presented by the children; our annual Peppernut and Apple Cider morning; Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. The year ended with a New Year’s Eve party at the church with games and snacks. We heard from Dave and Jan T; Brian and Nikki H; Darcy and Verna T who spent time in Cambodia with Harvest For Kids. Our Annual Ladies Retreat was held at the end of January. 30 ladies attended and then the next weekend was a guy event which included lots of good food and watching the football playoff together. Marilyn Harder, Correspondent Indian Head Community ChurchIndian Head, Saskatchewan Justin Epp, Pastor Christmas celebrations were in full swing at Indian Head Community Bible Church. Each Sunday of Advent, a family from the congregation shared a meaningful Scripture reading and lit a candle in the Advent wreath to start the worship service. Pastor Justin preached topical sermons to coordinate with this, reminding everyone of the hope, joy, and peace brought by Jesus’ birth.
Children from the Sunday School classes prepared and presented a play about the Christmas story during the Sunday service on Dec. 22. Church members also looked forward to the candlelight service on Christmas Eve, which focused on Scripture readings and carol singing. Now, as we step into the new year, the congregation fondly remembers these special moments of worship, fellowship, and celebration. Though the Christmas season has passed, its message of hope and joy continues to inspire us as we embrace the opportunities and blessings of the year ahead. Sarah Pacio, Correspondent Jansen Bible ChurchJansen, Nebraska Paul Carpenter, Pastor jansenbiblechurch.org On November 3, Jordan and Trisha Schlake were commissioned for their missionary service with The Evangelical Alliance Mission (TEAM). Along with their two sons, Roen and Matai, they planned to leave for Japan in February for their first four-year term. Jordan, the son of Kendall and Lola Schlake, had been studying Japanese independently for several years; however, their first year abroad would be dedicated to language study. Operation Christmas Child reported reaching 12 million needy children with gifts and the gospel this past year. It was our joy to help contribute to that goal. Awana kids and their families generously donated nonperishable foods to stock the shelves of the local food pantry for the season. Our ladies and girls enjoyed a Christmas brunch on Saturday, December 7. The event featured a thought-provoking quiz on Christmas Bible questions, followed by a white elephant gift exchange. The Awana kids were excited for Store Night on December 18, where they had the opportunity to spend the Awana dollars they earned for learning Bible verses. On December 22 at 5:00 PM, the church hosted the Christmas program, a play titled "Keeping Watch – Christmas Through the Eyes of Shepherds." The program was followed by a soup supper in the Fellowship Hall. The New Year’s Eve Carry-In Dinner began at 7:00 PM, offering an evening of games, snacks, and fellowship to welcome the year 2025. As we move forward in the new year, we reflect on these joyful moments and anticipate the continued work of God in our community. Tena Dick, Correspondent Langham Evangelical Bible ChurchLangham, Saskatchewan Greg Guarnett, Pastor langhambiblechurch.homestead.com God has blessed us here in Saskatchewan with a long warm autumn! September brought the startup of weekly fall ministries including adult Sunday School class, children’s church, Parent & Tots, and Junior Youth. Kids Clubs for ages 3 through to Grade 6 began in October. Our External Ministries committee collected diaper & formula donations for Pregnancy Options Centre in Saskatoon; this as well as supporting several Teen Challenge students on an annual basis. We were privileged in October to have the Teen Challenge ladies from Prairie Hope Women’s Centre share with us how God is changing lives there! Women’s Ministry also organized a pizza and visiting evening at Prairie Hope in January of each year to encourage the ladies. Two care home ministries continue year-round on a monthly/bi-weekly basis as well. In January, we also had the joy of hosting our annual Awana Race. Pastor Mathew Oliver, his daughter Gemma, and another one of our Kids Club leaders, Angela, are pictured below.  Annually in the fall, a day-long Women’s Seminar refreshes ladies in their walk with Jesus through video, fellowship, meals and singing. New this year, Pastor Matt organized a half-day Parenting Conference to equip and uphold moms and dads as they navigate parenthood. We are grateful for the love, care and teaching that our pastors and elder team provide for our church family. Marilyn Friesen, Correspondent Martensville Mission ChurchMartensville, Saskatchewan Justin Klassen, Pastor facebook.com/martensvillemissionchurch Happy New Year! At the conclusion of the Advent sermon series, Pastor Justin continued his series on the Book of Exodus. Pastor Brolin has been leading our youth in a study of the Sermon on the Mount. The youth are exploring Jesus’ vision of life in the Kingdom of Heaven versus life in the world. Looking ahead, plans are underway to take a group of youth to the “Always Ready” Ligonier Ministries Youth Conference in Calgary in early March. The conference will focus on finding our identities in Christ and bearing His image to the world around us. Highlights from last fall included the youth’s second annual progressive supper on October 1, where they enjoyed dining and dashing from one house to another for their meal. Other memorable moments were our Thanksgiving potluck and the collection of Samaritan’s Purse Christmas boxes. Recognizing that some individuals find it difficult to shop for the boxes, the church has facilitated donations over the years, allowing volunteers to shop on behalf of others. The Sunday School children then pack the boxes, and on dedication Sunday in November, they process into the sanctuary, each carrying a box. It took several trips from the foyer to the front of the church to stack them all neatly! We were blessed during the Christmas season with the sermon series on Advent, “The Story of Redemption,” and with various outreach and fellowship opportunities. These included preparing food hampers and other gifts for families in need, as well as events such as the Ladies’ Fellowship Supper, a special Ladies’ Christmas Bible Study, the “Christmas Traditions…Then and Now” production by the Sunday School and youth, the Christmas Banquet, the Coffee House, and, of course, our Christmas Eve Service. Since this past fall, before the children are invited to Children’s Church, both children and adults have been learning a Bible verse together. At the beginning of each month, a new “Verse of the Month” is introduced through a video featuring the Bible Verse Man—a six-year-old member of our congregation. In the video, he recites the verse and invites everyone to join him. Even at such a young age, he is demonstrating leadership. Way to go, Bible Verse Man! Brenda Quirt, Correspondent Randville Bible ChurchIron Mountain, Michigan Jim Janofski, Pastor facebook.com/RandvilleBibleChurch The Upper Peninsula of Michigan had entered that hushed season of silence: snow had fallen, and winter was upon us. Once again, we were reminded of God's faithfulness in all seasons, including the "seasons" of life. Even more so, the colorful lights of Christmas recently reminded us of the One who is the Light of the World, and the familiar carols pointed us to the birth of our Savior. "For unto you is born this day a Savior"—the angels' words echo across the ages as we once again commemorated the joy of Jesus' birth. The highlight of December was our annual "Celebration of Carols." This musical journey to Bethlehem began with the prophecies of the coming Messiah, the reading of Luke 2, and beloved carols featuring a variety of vocal ensembles. The musical message was further enriched instrumentally, with performances on piano, guitar, harp, baritone ukulele, trombone, trumpet, soprano saxophone, autoharp, Appalachian dulcimer ensemble, ukuleles, hammered dulcimer, handbell choir, violin, tenor, and plectrum banjo. As always, we were in awe of the power of the Incarnation: "God with us: Emmanuel." Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift—the gift of His own Son, our Savior! What a joy and encouragement it was for our small church family to welcome so many friends and loved ones who gathered for this cherished annual event! As we move forward into 2025, we continue to reflect on "A Spiritual Challenge for the New Year," preparing our hearts to love and serve our Lord in the months ahead. Blessings to all in our fellowship as we embrace this new season with faith and gratitude. Pastor Jim Janofski Saron Mennonite ChurchFairview, Oklahoma Arnold Curby, Pastor We were privileged to have James and Laurel Pence visit Saron all the way from Texas. Jim shared an inspiring chalk art presentation and his story of God's protection during his sudden cardiac arrest almost four years ago. Our church participated in a Community Hymn Sing, sponsored by the Fairview Area Ministerial Alliance, on the first Sunday night in November. Will Nunn was one of four alternating pianists, and Pastor Curby helped lead the singing. Pastor Curby also sang in a quartet with fellow pastors, accompanied by Will Nunn on piano. More than 150 people attended the event. Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes were collected and brought forward for prayer on November 17 during the morning service. Volunteers worked throughout the following week to receive shoeboxes from other churches in northwest Oklahoma and then helped load the trucks for delivery to the distribution center in Dallas, Texas. Denise Nunn, the area coordinator, reported a total of 5,864 shoeboxes from our area. A group of young people and adults went caroling one Sunday night in December, and additional carol singing took place at the Christmas Open House hosted by the Curbys. We eagerly anticipated the annual Christmas Eve service, which featured special music and a contemporary retelling of the Christmas story performed by the young people. This production was written and directed by Charissa Nunn. In addition, guests were invited to bring friends along to enjoy games and refreshments on New Year's Eve. Grace Curby, Correspondent Stuartburn Gospel ChapelStuartburn, Manitoba Mark Funk, Pastor Greetings in the Lord! We are thankful for God’s people, “the more the merrier!” On November 3, we welcomed 5 more individuals into our membership. They blessed us with their testimonies during the Sunday This past season, we celebrated Christmas on December 23 with a candlelight evening service. The service included multiple Scripture readings, poems, special musical performances, and a shadow nativity skit. There was a strong turnout, and attendees enjoyed snacks, refreshments, and fellowship following the event. For a long time, we had been debating whether to install a chair lift, an elevator, or construct a new building. Recognizing the need for progress, we decided to move forward with a solution. Praise the Lord! Donations were made toward installing an elevator, allowing us to proceed. Beginning in early February, renovations will take place to accommodate the installation of the new elevator. We are truly excited for this improvement, as it will provide accessibility and be a blessing to many in our congregation. As we move toward the Easter season, we plan to hold a special week of prayer and adoration. Looking ahead, we remain committed to making disciples and reaching our neighbors with the love of Christ. May the Lord be exalted, honored, and glorified in and through our service. Eileina Niessan, Correspondent Vita Bible ChurchVita, Manitoba Jonathan Coutts, Pastor The month of November was particularly encouraging for us at Vita Bible Church. At the beginning of the month, we held fall meetings and invited our sister church in Stuartburn to join us. We were challenged to walk alongside those struggling with mental illness as supporters, not saviors, lending them our joy and strength when it is most challenging for them to find their own. Our speaker, Pastor Jeff Friesen from Hebron Bible Church in Nebraska, led six sessions on the impact of mental illness in our society and church family and how to support one another. Later that month, our Women’s Ministry group invited our sister churches to join us for a Ladies' Day on Saturday, November 23. One of our guest speakers, Jenny Gerbrandt, a local counselor, echoed Pastor Jeff’s message as she encouraged us to come alongside the hurting, offer a listening ear, bear one another’s burdens, and be the church we are called to be. In the afternoon, we enjoyed hearing a testimonial from a woman navigating her cancer journey. In December, Pastor Jonathan reminded us that one word should gain our attention and action. He urged us to refocus and truly read and ponder the words of John 1. Jesus is the Word, the message we need to focus on not just during the Christmas season but every day, as we are reminded of His gift—the gift of salvation. We also hosted a community supper on the second Sunday of the month and a Sunday School Christmas program the following week. We finished off the year 2024 with a New Year’s Eve party at the church. This new year is off to a great start as we work together to fill our church positions and refocus and refresh our faith. Many of us are stepping into different roles within the church and discovering new ways to give our best to God. We were blessed by a baptismal service on January 19. Dylan and Jazmine Barnabe were baptized upon confession of their faith during the morning service. We rejoice that these two young people have a passion to follow God with obedient hearts. They were accepted into our membership as of February 9.
Pastor Jonathan has resumed our study of the book of Acts, which he began in September of last year. We have all been encouraged by the challenges faced by the early church as well as the unfolding of God’s plan for them and for us. Each time they encountered hardship and persecution, it led to the spreading of God’s Word and the strengthening of His church. To God be all the glory—then, now, and forevermore! Tiffany Tuurenhout, Correspondent
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  Langham Evangelical Bible Church’s (LEBC) Impact Junior Youth Group recently traveled to Camp Kadesh for a winter retreat. It was amazing to see the group really gel together during the weekend we shared. A lot of memories were made through meals together, group games, outdoor winter activities and all of the unplanned moments in between. Our group also dug deep into God’s Word by looking at the lives of Samuel, David and Peter who all did “Hard Things” because of their relationship with God and love for Him. The Holy Spirit was at work in the lives of the youth and leaders as we considered the possibility of engaging with the truth and having the courage to live it out! We all came back tired, but also very thankful for the entire experience. About Camp KadeshMore than just a great summer camp on one of the best lakes in Saskatchewan. Camp Kadesh cares about inspiring youth to live better lives. We are a second home. We hold the value of relationships as the foundation of why we do things and continue to build on that base to help kids explore who they are and are created to be. First opened in 1982 with summer camps, we now have programming in Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. In all seasons we seek to create new and exciting learning experiences, always staying focused on people. We are a Christian camp and believe that God seeks relationship with all people and He challenges people to build a better world. We want to challenge youth to be world changers too!  Tags:
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One of the ways our Fellowship stands ready to help your church is by providing advice and counsel on theological issues. The following are some ways we do this.
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Growing Our Fellowship2/5/2025  Just in the past month or two, I have had several very encouraging conversations about potential growth within our Fellowship:
To be clear – growth is not what our Fellowship focuses on. We focus on working together to support and encourage one another and to further the spread of the Gospel. However, growth is healthy, as it adds resources and increases the impact of our ministry. In the past, our efforts to grow have been mostly focused on church planting. This is still a vital area, and we continue to pursue it. But several factors have changed since we began planting decades ago. For instance, many areas that can support an evangelical church have existing churches from which to choose, and areas of rapid growth are typically in the suburbs, where one can easily drive fifteen minutes to an existing church. I believe that much of our future growth will likely come from one of two sources:
These are the areas where we have seen the most movement in recent years. n many ways, this is new territory for our Fellowship. We have lots of policies and procedures and shared experiences when it comes to planting a new church, but not so much when it comes to encouraging another church to join us. Efforts to identify and recruit a new church seem almost pointless at the top of our organization. Cold calling a church to ask if they are looking for something new is not effective. Churches are not posting “want ads” seeking a new fellowship. The most effective way to recruit new churches to join us is through the efforts of the member church pastors, leaders, and congregation members. This could be a pastor sitting over coffee with a fellow pastor and saying, “I think our Fellowship could be a great fit for you,” or a congregation member telling their uncle who is on the board at another church, “Perhaps your church would find a better theological fit with our Fellowship.” These are the types of conversations that will help us grow and allow us to minister to even more people. Make a connection and see if there seems to be genuine interest. If so, connect them with me. I am always happy to share about our Fellowship with those who are curious. Join with us in watching for ways we can expand our impact on the church in North America.
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8/22/2025
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