Is this a time to flex your 'NO' muscle?

Hello church family—This summer I started paying attention to what’s become a cultural phenomenon. Many are determined not to come out of the pandemic (whenever that might be!) as the same person who went in. 

The long pause which forced both isolation and introspection has become a catalyst for change. Not wanting to return to pre-COVID life once things normalize, the masses are switching jobs, houses, cities, churches, priorities, and routines. There’s privilege in having the ability to choose to make a life shift right now, especially when many people are facing changes they didn’t ask for: losses of jobs, savings, homes, friends, family, and security. But among those fortunate enough to make them voluntarily, life adjustments are coming fast and frequently.

Set against this reality, this weekend we’re launching teaching series oriented around self-examination and the pursuit of God’s best. We’re not going to talk about how to discern if it’s time for a move or a major purchase, but we are going to talk about what we might say ‘no’ to in order to move closer to the life God has for us. And to kick it off, this weekend we’ll consider what it might look like to pursue a quieter existence. Join us online or on campus for “No More NOISE!”

Staff Update

Before I go, I want to share news of another encouraging addition to our pastoral team. Kent Maddigan recently said ‘yes’ to joining our staff in the capacity of Kids Pastor. 

Kent has extensive ministry experience, including multiple years in Lead and Senior Associate roles in Alliance churches in B.C. But Kent got his start in ministry working with kids and families, and we’re delighted that he’s agreed to help us rebuild the ministry most impacted by the last 19 months.

You may know or recognize Kent as he and Danette and their family have made SPAC home for the last 4 years. Kent also joined our Elder Board in 2020, a role he’s relinquishing in order to join the pastoral staff. Kent will share some of his story this weekend...you’ll want to hear him describe his journey and the reasons why he looks forward the challenge!

COVID Update

Finally, a quick update on what you can expect if you’re coming to in-person church this weekend. On Sept. 1 Strathcona County passed a temporary bylaw requiring masks for public indoor spaces and events, including churches. On Sept. 4, our provincial government announced new public health measures, but exempted places of worship from mask requirements.

As of this writing municipal and provincial measures are not in sync, and as long as this continues, we’ll adhere to municipal regulations and ask participants to remain masked throughout the worship experience. If Strathcona County amends their bylaw and aligns with the province, we’ll continue to prioritize care for others by encouraging mask use and respectful distancing.

Thanks for understanding and for modeling Christ-like love, especially for those most vulnerable.

Greg Hochhalter
Lead Pastor

Join us for our second annual Family Amazing Race on Sept 25th at 10am.

You and your family will follow clues as you race around Sherwood Park searching for an opportunity to snap a selfie with some of your favorite staff members. Open to all ages and prizes available!

Registration is required: https://www.spac.ca/amazingrace

There is no manual for raising kids, but God has given us something far better - the Holy Spirit, and the community around us.

Child Dedication is a way to acknowledge our dependence on the leadership and guidance of the Holy Spirit as we do our best to be an example and lead our children into a relationship with Jesus.

If you are interested in Child Dedication, please register by visiting the website. spac.ca/childdedication

Life Groups matter because they invite you into a place of deep community where you are known, loved and encouraged to grow in your walk with Jesus.

We know community begins when we move from sitting in rows, to doing life in circles together. If you’d like to find ways to connect deeper into community and grow in your walk with Jesus, the opportunity to join or lead a life group is one of the best ways to do this! We’d love to help you find a community either in-person or online!

A Life Groups Open House will be held on the September 18/19 weekend. We would love for you to plan to attend and find out more about what Groups we have available in our church and how you can get involved! www.spac.ca/lifegroups