Good morning.  I hope you’re making this a great Christmas week.  Here are a few updates:
There will be no updates next week as I will be off and away for a Christmas break.  Also, some have been asking about the impact the coming storm will have on the carol sing tomorrow night. The short answer is, I don’t know yet.  We’ll see where things are at as we get closer so stay tuned!
 
 
New Years Day Breakfast
As we ring in the New Year you’re invited to join us for breakfast at GBC from 8:30-9:30am.  What a great way to start off 2023!  If you’re interested in coming, please sign the list in the foyer or send me an email to confirm so we know how much food to prepare.
 
 
Financial Update from our treasurer
Here is the latest update from our treasurer, Ken Finlay.  Thank you to all who have given recently and throughout the year. We couldn’t do what we do without your help.
 
General Offerings
Year to date, December 20
Budget                       $195,891   
Actual                        $187,201   
Shortfall                        $8,690
(The Actual above excludes contributions to the Pastor Fund)

Pastor Fund
Goal                             $50,000
Contributions To Date $28,500
Yet to be Raised           $21,500

Tax Receipts for 2022 will be issued in February:  For offerings to be included in 2022 tax receipts, it must be received before January 1, next year.  Due to the office being closed most of next week, offerings put in the Chapel’s Offering Box must be there by Monday December 26 to ensure it is counted as 2022 offering.  Offerings sent via EFT and Canada Helps should be deposited by December 30th. .  (Note: an offering cheque dated in December but placed in the Chapel’s offering box after December 26th, may be counted as a 2023 offering)
 
Boxes of 2023 personal offering envelopes are now available in the front lobby.
 
 
Join us Christmas morning as we celebrate the arrival of the king
On Christmas morning at 10:30am we will be holding  a full service to celebrate the arrival of Jesus, the king. We will sing joyful songs of the day and I will be looking at the implications of the arrival of the king.
If you can’t make it you can connect through our website:  
www.guelphbiblechapel.ca  our YouTube channel as well as Facebook LIVE.
 
 
 Thought for the Day: Reflections on Christmas
There are a lot of things to distract us right now…inflation, wars and rumors of war and now we throw in a big snow storm coming! It would be easy to despair or want to get in bed and not get out.
Yet that would be a mistake.
As we’ve been looking at Sundays in our series “Preparing for the King”, we follow a  God who is in control, not surprised by what’s going on and loved us by sending his son. Immanuel, God with us, came that night in Bethlehem. As the angels shared with the shepherds: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” 
Did the shepherds have their problems? Absolutely. They didn’t shrug it off, they went to see the Christ child and they rejoiced then spread the word of what had happened. In many ways I think this can be our template at Christmas time. We too have received this message, through the scriptures.  So, let’s not shrug it off and hunker down but may we gaze into the nativity, be inspired and encouraged by the examples of faithful servants like these shepherds, plus Mary, Joseph and the Wise Men and may we rejoice as well. Then, lets share the Good News with our world and perhaps we will see the same transformation, given time, that the night we celebrate in three days kicked off.
So, from my family and from me, have a very Happy Christmas and blessed New Year, no matter what it holds. I can’t wait for it!
 
In His grip,
Pastor Chris

​Good morning.  Looks like we’ll have a white Christmas! Though I’m not a big fan of snow I do like it at this time of year.  These are what I call ‘small blessings’ and something more to be thankful to God for. What ‘small blessings’ do you have in your life? Have you thanked God for them?
 
 
Pray for our Community Christmas Carol Sing (and come out too!)
The post cards are out (thanks to those who helped!), the music and tech team is ready to go, now we need a crowd. I’d encourage you to spend some time in prayer for this event throughout the week. As I shared Sunday, one of the key leaders in the Junction Neighbourhood Group volunteered to hand out postcards on her street.  That is powerful and shows how God is moving. Now we’d love to have many people from the neighborhood and community join us to hear the Good News of the Christmas season.
 
 
Food Mountain Update and Offer       
We had another great ‘food mountain’ this year. Thanks to all who contributed and to Helen for organizing. As I mentioned on Sunday, if you find yourself struggling this Christmas season you are welcome to come and take as much as you’d like from it. This can be done in the morning until Wednesday at noon when it will be donated to Royal City Mission.   If you’d like to get some items, but coming in before the deadline is a problem let Helen or I know and we can make arrangements to pull out what you’d like.
 
 
Thought for the day:  On Christmas Day, come as a child
Christmas morning is probably my favorite day of the year. While I love getting presents the thing that has been the most special to me for years is watching the reactions of my children.  The joy and excitement is something I can’t describe.  Author Erma Bombeck said: "There's nothing sadder in this world than to awake Christmas morning and not be a child."
We are to be childlike as we come to God on Christmas Day, as we remember and reflect upon Immanuel, God with us and that speaks to our attitude.  Jesus said in Matthew 18: 'I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'"
I don’t think there’s anything more exciting than being a child on Christmas morning. And yet this is what God asks of us not just on Christmas Day but each day, to change and become like little children, to put our hope and trust in him and enjoy the wonder of what he offers us. Each day approach God the Father as a child, with excited anticipation of his goodness. Humbly trust that your every need will be met and every care will be under his control. 
 
In His grip,
Pastor Chris

​Good morning. I hope you’re making this a great week!  Plans are coming along nicely for the community Christmas carol sing next week. I hope you can make it!  Thanks to those who have distributed postcards in the neighborhood already to promote the event. We still have a few more left. If you could perhaps help out on Sunday afternoon after church to get the last batch out, that would be super.
 
Prayer for Transition, Provision, and Mission
We will again be hosting prayer for thirty minutes before the service this Sunday through to December 18 at 10 am in the Adult Ministry Room.  Prayer will be in-person and online.  There will be a time of praying for pastoral transition, raising funds for the next year, and gospel fruitfulness leading up to Christmas.  Coffee and donuts will be available for those who need fuel before prayer :) 
 
See link for Zoom below and the phone numbers for those who wish to join in online or by phone.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/21216757733?pwd=Z1JkN3dEeE9nTkhXY0tldlhEcWZFQT09

Meeting ID: 212 1675 7733                    Passcode: 733870
Dial by your location:    +1 647 558 0588 Canada or   +1 778 907 2071 Canada
 
 
Join us on Sunday in-person or on our livestream as continue our Christmas series: “Preparing for the King”
Are you ready for the coming of the king?  Have you ever thought of Christmas in those terms?  This Sunday Patrick will be looking at the idea of finding the king this Christmas.
If you can’t make it you can connect through our website:  
www.guelphbiblechapel.ca  our YouTube channel as well as Facebook LIVE.
 
 
Thought for the day: God can do the impossible, Christmas proves that
I read a great quote recently: "When God intends to make something wonderful he begins with a difficulty. When he intends to make something very wonderful, he begins with an impossibility." That’s so true!  And this truth is found in all its glory in the Christmas story.  The Bible affirms this truth when we read in Ephesians 3: "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!” The verse ends with a hearty AMEN!.
This is the heart of the Christmas story- that God can do the impossible for you. 
The birth of Jesus was not just a difficulty; it was an impossibility. Mary was a virgin. Only God could breathe life into her womb. And just as God caused her to conceive the perfect, sinless Savior -- fully God, fully human -- he can accomplish through you those things that seem impossible in your life.  For this Christmas, Christmas 2022, perhaps we need this reminder more than ever.  A God who did the impossible is on our side, he loved us so much that the Word (God) became flesh. That’s why we celebrate Christmas because Immanuel, God, is with US.  It doesn’t matter whether we have snow or not, what the inflation rate is or who is in office, we can celebrate this and find hope!
 
In His grip,
Pastor Chris

​Good morning! It was so good to be part of a full Kid’s and Youth Christmas program after three years on Sunday.  Thanks to our hospitality team for putting on the amazing lunch.  It was a real blessing to me, I hope it was to you as well. If you missed out, do be sure to watch it on our YouTube channel. 
 
 
Oasis@Midweek tomorrow
Our popular children's ministry event Oasis@Midweek happens tomorrow night. Kids JK to grade 6 are invited to join us from 6:30pm to 8pm for an Oasis Camp themed evening of music, games, life lesson and this time our popular drama led by the youth group.  O@M is not just for those who went to camp but for all who would like to remember how MONUMENTAL God is and celebrate his awesomeness.
 
 
GBC Community Christmas Carol Event help
With our community Christmas Carol sing coming up on the 23rd we need some people to help distribute postcards in the next few days in the neighborhood to get out the word. 
The night of I could use a couple of people to help me with greeting and parking.
Finally, please pray for all the details and that the weather would be good and God would be honored.  It’s going to be a great night.
 
 
Update on the Prayer Chain
From December 15-25 the Chapmans are away so, any prayer requests that would go to Carroll during this period should go to [email protected]
May we continue to lift each other up in prayer.
 
 
Thought for the day: Immanuel mean God is with US
Immanuel. I talked about the word on Sunday and its often heard at this time of year. But what does this unusual word mean for the Christmas story? 
When the angel said to Joseph: "All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 'The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel' - which means, 'God with us.'" This had implications for not just Joseph but for us as well.
I like how singer Michael Card put it: "The implications of the name 'Immanuel' are both comforting and unsettling. Comforting, because He has come to share the danger as well as the drudgery of our everyday lives. He desires to weep with us and to wipe away our tears. And what may seem bizarre, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, longs to share in and to be the source of the laughter and the joy we all too rarely know."
Why do we turn to God so quickly in times of sorrow and struggle, in danger and fear, and forget him in the times of joy and rejoicing? If God is the giver of joy and he is "God with us," then he must want to share in those moments of great joy, and even in those times of silly laughter and fun. 
God does that, really?
Yes, he does. He wants to share in our joy too, that’s another meaning of God with us. This Christmas, and yes, even when its impacted by inflation, war, illness and such, when those inevitable moments of joy and laughter break out, be sure to invite God in to share it with you because at Christmas, how can you not?
 
In His grip,
Pastor Chris

​Good afternoon. I hope you’re making this a great week!  Lots going on these days here at GBC and all around. You know I love this time of year but I need to remind myself to keep my eyes fixed on the Lord and not get distracted. May you not either!
 
 
Giving Update to the End of November
The latest report from our treasurer is below.  We’re making progress on our ‘pastor fund’ which is great but are still behind on giving for our general needs.  I know that operating may not be as exciting as special projects but is critically important to the overall operation of our church. As we approach year-end, I’d encourage you to prayerfully consider how you can help us out. Thanks, as always, to those who have been faithful in giving. It means a LOT to me.
 
General Offerings 
Year to date, end of November
Budget                      $178,720
Actual                        $165,665
Shortfall                     $13,055
 
Pastor Fund
Goal                            $50,000
Contributions To Date $10,530
Yet to be Raised          $39,470
 
 
Prayer for Transition, Provision, and Mission
We will again be hosting prayer for thirty minutes before the service this Sunday through to December 18 at 10 am in the Adult Ministry Room.  Prayer will be in-person and online.  There will be a time of praying for pastoral transition, raising funds for the next year, and gospel fruitfulness leading up to Christmas.  Coffee and donuts will be available for those who need fuel before prayer :) 
 
See link for Zoom below and the phone numbers for those who wish to join in online or by phone.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/21216757733?pwd=Z1JkN3dEeE9nTkhXY0tldlhEcWZFQT09

Meeting ID: 212 1675 7733                    Passcode: 733870
Dial by your location:    +1 647 558 0588 Canada or   +1 778 907 2071 Canada
 
 
Join us on Sunday in-person or on our livestream as continue our Christmas series: “Preparing for the King”
Are you ready for the coming of the king?  Have you ever thought of Christmas in those terms?  This Sunday is our annual Kid’s Church/Youth Christmas presentation, always a fun event!  I will be tying the presentations together under the idea of ‘experiencing the king’.  Remember, lunch follows too.
If you can’t make it you can connect through our website  
www.guelphbiblechapel.ca  our YouTube channel as well as Facebook LIVE.
 
 
Thought for the day: The Greatest Christmas Gift
What is the best Christmas gift you’ve ever received? I can think of lots over the years that have been very special to me and even today I remember with a smile. I also reflect a lot at this time of year about the gift of salvation that Jennifer and I received one December many years ago. It was there, for the first time, I understood my need for a Savior. In many ways this is the heart of Christmas: not the tree, not the giving and receiving, not even the carols, but the humble heart that receives anew the wondrous gift, the Christ.  But there’s a big difference between Adam’s sin that led to all our problems in the world and God’s gracious gift of Jesus. For the sin of this one man, Adam, brought death to many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of forgiveness to many through this other man, Jesus Christ, who was fully God and fully man.  The Bible tells us: for Adam’s sin led to condemnation, but God’s gift leads to our being made right with God; for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ.
So, this Christmas, lets remember that Jesus is the greatest gift!
Each year we are reminded that Christmas isn't just about giving and receiving presents. Yet, if we honestly consider the heart of Christmas, it is.  If we really think about it, the gift of Jesus is one given that needs to be received.  May this spur all our other activities on. At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the greatest gift ever given, by the greatest gift-giver of all, our wonderful God and Father.
 
In His grip,
Pastor Chris

Good morning. As part of our desire to reach out with the good news of the gospel we also want to partner with other ministries in town who do that. Most of you know we have a growing connection with Michael House which is a home that helps mothers in need. They recently asked for space to stage preparations for their Christmas party.  So, today their ‘elves’ are here starting to sort and pack gifts for the 145 coming to the event later in the month, a record number. It’s been neat seeing them in action and a real joy that we can help them out in this simple way.  May we continue to seek  innovative ways to let our lights shine.
 
 
Sunday is our annual Kid’s Church and Youth Group Christmas Presentation and lunch
Our always-popular Christmas service featuring our Kid’s Church and Youth Group is this Sunday coming up.  Friends and family are heartily invited to come out and join in this look at Christmas through some different perspectives.
Also, back is the post-event lunch.  Enjoy the presentations and message for the morning then stay and enjoy lunch as we build community.
 
 
Announcing our Community Carol Sing
On Friday December 23 at 7pm, please join us for our community Christmas carol sing. We’ll be singing seasonal favorites under the stars (hopefully!).  Please mark the date and think about who you can invite to come with you.  There will be an opportunity to distribute some post card invitations as well coming up. Please pray that we’d have many from the neighborhood and community join us as we lift our voices in praise.
 
 
Thought for the day:  Christmas- a message worth sharing
Remembering the story of Jesus’ birth is a wonderful part of Christmas. It may be hard to believe that in 2022 so many people have never heard it before! Or if they have, they don’t understand what it has to do with them. The Christmas story has been lost in the shuffle of everything else going on this time of year. And even for those who know the basics of the story, many have no clue as to why Jesus came to earth or why He was born.
Everyone needs to know, not only that He was born, but the meaning of His birth, we’d probably all agree. So, ‘what is my part?’  I’m glad you asked! This is likely the easiest time of year to talk about the Good News of Jesus birth, life and importance.  While you can’t predict who is open to the gospel, my bet is at this time of year everyone is aware of it. This is a great door-opener!  And hey, the only way to find out is to share the message of Jesus with them!
So, this Christmas, I’d encourage you to share the gospel story of the birth of Jesus and what it means. Sow seeds abundantly.
When the angels appeared to the shepherds nearly two thousand years ago just outside of Bethlehem they shared this message: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”  In many ways that’s still our message today. So then, who can you share this same idea with this Christmas?
 
In His grip,
Pastor Chris 

​Good morning. I hope you’re making this a great week. It’s hard to believe we are at December 1st already. November seemed to fly by.  As we enter more fully into the Christmas season do try to take some time to slow down and reflect on the meaning of the season.
 
 
Prayer for Transition, Provision, and Mission
We will again be hosting prayer for thirty minutes before the service this Sunday through to December 18 at 10 am in the Adult Ministry Room.  Prayer will be in-person and online.  There will be a time of praying for pastoral transition, raising funds for the next year, and gospel fruitfulness leading up to Christmas.  Coffee and donuts will be available for those who need fuel before prayer :) 
 
See link for Zoom below and the phone numbers for those who wish to join in online or by phone.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/21216757733?pwd=Z1JkN3dEeE9nTkhXY0tldlhEcWZFQT09

Meeting ID: 212 1675 7733                    Passcode: 733870
Dial by your location:    +1 647 558 0588 Canada or   +1 778 907 2071 Canada
 
 
Our annual Kid’s Church and Youth Group Christmas Presentation and lunch is next Sunday
Our always-popular Christmas service featuring our Kid’s Church and Youth Group is next Sunday, the 11th.  Friends and family are heartily invited to come out and join in this look at Christmas through some different perspectives.
Also, back is the post-event lunch.  Enjoy the presentations and message for the morning then stay and enjoy lunch as we build community.
 
 
Join us on Sunday in-person or on our livestream as continue our Christmas series: “Preparing for the King”
Are you ready for the coming of the king?  Have you ever thought of Christmas in those terms?  We are continuing our Christmas series this Sunday. Jacob will be continuing to look at the idea of Jesus as King.
Remember, you can join us as we gather in-person or you can connect through our website www.guelphbiblechapel.ca  our YouTube channel as well as Facebook LIVE.
 
 
Thought for the day: At Christmas, it’s go, not come!
One of my favorite Christmas carols is ‘O Come, O Come, Emmanuel’. That invitation to the messiah, the savior to the world, is a cry from the heart.  But he HAS come (and is coming again!) so we find in this message a call to go, as in go out and share this good news.
The tendency during the Christmas season is to focus on inviting people to come, rather than going to them. We plan events and parties, inviting people to come to them. And often they do come. More people attend church at Christmas than any other time of the year. These events have an impact, no doubt. After Christmas though, many never return. So here’s where we see a need for balance in activities.
We invite people to programs, like our carol sing, or program next week. That’s great, but its only the starting point.  It’s also not the same as making disciples. Could Christmas become more about disciple-making and not only about inviting people to church?
If we’re honest, sometimes its easier to invite someone to come to something rather than to go to them where they’re at and stay with them on their journey.
What if we went and shared the Good News of the birth of Immanuel, God with us, with our friends, neighbors, and relatives? What if we went even further and offered to do a study or something similar with them?  I know…I know…I’m getting carried away…but what if?
 
In His grip,
Pastor Chris