“Having submitted my life wholeheartedly
to Christ nearly six years ago, I have had the opportunity
to experience this amazing ‘mountain top’
experience described by so many, and then, through
a series of difficult experiences, see myself slide
to such incredible depths that I couldn’t imagine
any possible relief.
Today, I have a renewed hope. About four months ago,
I was introduced to Sanctuary West, a church whose
motto is “Completely Irreligious, yet Radically
Christian.” It was here that I met people without
pretense, willing to share their joys as well as their
failures, and still know that they are accepted -
almost because of their frankness rather than despite
it.
And yet, the most attractive part of Sanctuary West
is how every time we meet, the presence of Christ
is always felt, inspiring the group to follow Him
and to be a part of His mission. I am just so grateful
that I can even play a role.”
The ministry here is blessed with many people just like
Helen, and there are so many that we have yet to reach,
who still don’t know about Christ. At present
we are challenged in that God is sending so many people,
that the room we occupy is rapidly becoming too small
and if we are to have room for the people God is going
to send we need to look at moving to a larger room.
If any of this letter sounds like bragging, I beg your
forgiveness. My only desire is that God might be praised
and that each of you might be urged to greater fervency
in your prayers. God is the author of this work, and
only God is worthy of the praise for what He has done!
So too is God the only determiner of any future ministry
that might take place. I have never been more aware
of my own inadequacy, and the mystery of God’s
working through “earthen vessels” than I
am now. It is on this basis that I appeal to you for
your prayers. Please pray that not only would God continue
to send us people, but that He would make us good stewards
with the people He sends. Of what value is a large attendance
if they remain no different than when they came? Please,
also pray that God would give us the wisdom necessary
as we consider a future move, as well as our strategy
for continued ministry.
In the service of Christ our Lord,
Russell Worrad (Senior Pastor)
rworrad@thesanctuary.ca
www.thesanctuary.ca
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