​CLASSIS ENDORSES BETHEL’S CHURCH PLANT

​CLASSIS ENDORSES BETHEL’S CHURCH PLANT
 
The vote is in!  Our regional body of Christian Reformed Churches (Classis) approved the release of $53,000 per year, for three years, to support the Fort Saskatchewan church plant, starting in 2019.  The unspoken message is:  “Bethel Church, If you will take the faith-step to sponsor a church plant, we will be behind you 100%.” 
 
This vote was significant for a couple of reasons.  It showed strong affirmation of Bethel’s plans.  It also marks a milestone in classis’ vision to plant one church every three years for the next fifteen years.  
 
When I reported to Classis I was able to tell some of our “God stories:”
 
· Our Council Chair Greg Boskers’ story of feeling led to move to Fort Saskatchewan, then coming to believe the city needed a church plant.  (At the time, Greg didn’t realize that planting a church was already part of the Dream for Bethel.)
· Pastor Ryan’s sense of call to plant a church, and his affirmation by the denomination.
· The surprising growth of the Fort Saskatchewan House Church in recent months, and how it is even starting to attract seekers.
 
After the vote was taken and the motion to support the church plant unanimously approved, I introduced Pastor Ryan.  He shared his passion for Fort Saskatchewan and his eagerness to see many come to Christ.
 
I think our words made a big impact on the group. My prayer is that Bethel’s example will spur on other area churches to partner with Classis to sponsor future church plants.  I praise God for Bethel’s faith-filled leadership in this mission effort!
 - Pastor Tom
 

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