Connecting Points Magazine Fall 2017

CLACHURCH.COM
3

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
4

CLACHURCH.COM
1

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
CONTENTS
4 MISSION, VISION & VALUES
6 PASTORAL TEAM
7 NEWCOMERS
8 CONNECT
10 LEARN & GROW
12 HER
16 CLA FEASTS
18 BOXES OF LOVE
22 ALPHA
24 GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT
26 YOUNG ADULTS
28 REVOLUTION
30 FIRST IMPRESSIONS
32 CARE
34 CELEBRATION
35 GIVING/CONTACT
2

CLACHURCH.COM
WELCOME
I’m very excited to present you this magazine. Last Spring we released our new
missions statement for CLA. “Joining God in transforming our lives, neighbourhood,
nation and world.” We are going to accomplish this mission by Gathering, Growing,
Serving and Going. This document will help. It presents opportunities and illustrations
for meaningful engagement in our church mission.
Whatever your age or stage of life, you can be involved, you need to be involved.
This Fall, make it your goal to connect with your church family in a deeper
way. Come and join us on Sundays but also through a mid-week Connecting Point.
Allow yourself to grow spiritually. Grow in faith, in love and in spiritual disciplines.
As you let the Holy Spirit to fill you, He will propel you forward in servanthood.
Church is not a selfish pursuit, all about “me”, but rather it is an opportunity to help
others discover and grow in their personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This may
mean stepping out of your comfort zone, taking a risk, doing something new. Do
it! God will bless your step of faith and obedience. As you “Go” into your sphere of
influence, you will take the compassion of Christ with you. The Spirit will anoint you.
You will make both our church and community better. God has plans for you in the
season ahead. Exciting!
Can I encourage you to share your stories of faith, ministry and witness with
me? I love to read emails or listen to people recall how God is at work in their lives.
This magazine will illustrate some of these stories, but I know there are many more.
CLA is a church family of 3500 people, five generations of Christ followers, learning
from each other. Our children, youth, young adults, adults and seniors are working
together to “spur one another on to love and good deeds”(Hebrews 10:24). We are
working together to be “the light of the world”, “the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5).
God is at work. Together, we celebrate this. Be encouraged.
Let’s connect with God’s vision for us.
DERRICK HAMRE, LEAD PASTOR
3

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
JOINING GOD IN TRANS-
FORMING OUR LIVES,
NEIGHBOURHOODS,
NATION & WORLD.
4

CLACHURCH.COM
Gather
because of Christ’s resurrection.
Christianity cannot be lived in isolation. We gather because it unites our hearts in one
common belief in Jesus Christ. As we celebrate together, we sing, pray, hear God’s Word
and regularly participate in the Lord’s Supper and baptism as instructed in the New Testament.
We meet to encourage each other to live out our faith as we are sent out.
Grow
because of Christ in us.
The Bible tells us in Colossians 1:27 that Christ in you is the hope of glory! How could
we not be transformed when God lives in us? As we grow in our awareness of God’s
presence in and through us, our lives reflect Him in even greater ways. We’re all called
to growth, and growth happens best together.
Serve
because of Christ’s sacrifice.
Christ’s own sacrifice compels us to get out of our own story and into the story of
others. Jesus calls us to serve and not sit, to sacrifice our personal time, gifts and resources
to see others transformed by the gospel. We lead and are not just led, we feed
and are not just fed. We find meaning and purpose in choosing to serve.
Go
because of Christ’s love.
We are compelled to reach out because of Christ’s love within us. At the heart of a
missional church is the desire to bring Christ into our sphere of influence, to be the salt
of the earth and a light on a hill. Yet, it does not stop there. CLA has a special call to
our nation and world. We pray, we love, we give, we represent Christ here and globally.
5

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
PASTORAL TEAM
DERRICK HAMRE
Lead Pastor
MARTY MITTELSTAEDT
Associate Pastor - Gather - Creative
MIKE BIDELL
Associate Pastor - Grow - Spiritual Formation
STEVE NICHOLSON
Missions Director - Go
DOUG FREDERICK
Associate Pastor / Recovery Church
DEBBIE TONN
Women’s Pastor
PETER YOON
Youth Pastor
JEREMY KING
Young Adults Pastor
JASON BALLARD
Assistant Pastor / Youth & Young Adults
BILL ASHBEE
Care Ministries Pastor
LARISSA ALCOTT
CLA Kids Director (maternity leave)
ARLENE TRAUTER
Senior Adults Director
JASON ELIASON
Church Planting Pastor
LOWELL HOLMQUIST
Sooke Campus Pastor
MIKE PENNINGTON
Maple Ridge Campus Pastor
6

CLACHURCH.COM
NEWCOMERS
SUNDAYS
Why do we gather? Each week we gather as a Church, to grow closer to God through great teaching, to focus our hearts
through worship on the God who gives us life. We grow together as a community as we are challenged to serve our community,
our city, our country, our world. We are united in seeking God and serving together.
What should I expect? Our services usually last about 90 minutes. They include music, an opportunity for prayer, and 30-35
minutes of relevant, Bible-based teaching. From the time you enter the parking lot, signs will clearly mark the way to our main
auditorium. Once in the building, visit the Guest Services desk and we will help you find a seat and answer any questions you
may have. We want to serve you.
WELCOME TO CHURCH PARTY
A great place to meet people, meet key leaders, and see
what life in our church looks like. Look for the next Welcome
to Church Party at clachurch.com/community
We would love to have you join us for lunch.
DISCOVERY
Three times a year (fall, winter and spring) Pastor Derrick
and Sara-Lee host and lead the Discovery Class. The course
is an opportunity to meet new people, get to know the
Hamres and to hear about God’s unique call for CLA. Those
who attend are often new to our church or checking out
CLA to see if it is where God wants them to be. However,
each semester, there are also people who have been at CLA
for many years and simply want to be better acquainted
with their pastor and/or to connect with new people. It’s a
perfect refresher to remind people of our mission and values.
It is a wonderful environment. Each week an amazing
dessert is shared along with coffee and tea. The informal
setting is perfect for a relational orientation to Christian Life
Assembly. Discovery Class is a prerequisite for membership.
It is a place to take your spiritual gifts test and learn
how God has made you to be a blessing to His Church. It
is a 6-week course. Go to clachurch.com/community to see
LIFE GROUPS
Life Groups are the best way for anyone in CLA to connect,
grow and go deeper into a life that brings impact to our
world. We have a variety of groups that meet all around
the Lower Mainland at different times throughout the week.
Each of our groups are unique, but all are focused on cultivating
real community, growing spiritually and reaching out
in some way. Weather you’d like to find a group that fits for
you, or would be interested in helping host or lead a group,
we’d love to hear from you so we can help!
CLACHURCH.COM
Visit our website to find the most current information about
upcoming events and what his happening in various ministries.
You can also view sermons and even find a link to
give online.
CLA APP
Stay Connected! Our mobile app allows you to view our
Weekly Newsletter, watch sermons and register for events.
It’s a great way to keep connected to the life of our church,
right from your phone. The app is available on iPhone, iPad,
Android, Windows and Amazon. Go to clachurch.com/app to
download and get started.
when the next class is starting and to register.
7

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
CONNECT
RECOVERY CHURCH
Recovery Church is a place for addicts and ex-addicts to
heal, grow and connect with others by looking to Jesus
Christ for a new life.
Sundays | 6 pm | Auditorium
CLA KIDS
Quality, age-specific programs that include crafts, music and
Bible teaching in fun, safe and engaging spaces for all kids.
Sundays | 9 & 11 am | Tree fort in Back Foyer
REVOLUTION (YOUTH)
Revolution is for students in Grades 6-12, providing a positive
environment for youth to know who they are and to
help guide them in their life’s journey.
Tuesdays | 7 pm | Auditorium
YOUNG ADULTS
We want to create an environment where young adults can
hear and respond to the power of God’s word.
Thursdays | 7:30 pm | Theatre
MEN
We will to cultivate a culture of biblical manhood and to see
HER (WOMEN)
Whether you are a student, mom, grandmother, daughter
or leader in your community or business place, Her is a
women’s ministry that exists to encourage, equip and empower
you! There are many ways for you to connect this fall.
Visit clachurch.com/women for up to date information on
upcoming classes and events.
THRIVE (SENIORS)
Our Thrive ministry is a vibrant, energetic, and important
ministry for our senior adults here at CLA. Creating a place
for authentic relationships and spiritual growth. We have
various classes and gatherings throughout the month. Visit
clachurch.com/seniors for a list of all our upcoming classes
and events.
CARE & PRAYER
No one should travel alone on their life journey, especially
when there are challenging hurdles to overcome. In Care
Ministries there are leaders who have successfully transitioned
through tough times and are passionate to come
alongside people through the joys and challenges of life. To
see a list of our current support groups, or to connect with
our pastoral care team, visit clachurch.com/care
our families, workplaces and cities transformed. We have
opportunities for men of all ages and backgrounds. Our
events are designed to challenge and unite us to collectively
seek God and serve together.
Mondays | 7:30 pm | East Chapel
8

CLACHURCH.COM
MISSIONS AT CLA
Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy
Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me
in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end
of the earth.”
2017 MISSIONS TRIPS
Cuba | Recovery October 24-31
Guatemala | Men October 20-30
Guatemala | Women November 10-20
As a church, we support over 40 global workers, projects
and ministries per year. Our vision is to reach beyond
the walls of our church to make an impact on our world in
practical and spiritual ways.
Not only do we support global workers, we send them!
If you are interested in learning more about participating
in short term missions, there may be a trip for you to join.
We also have many different ministries and outreaches
that are dedicated to reaching groups of people all over
our city and region. This includes Cityserve, ESLC, Bus
Ministry, and local outreach events that we hold throughout
the year.
To find out more about the projects & ministries we support,
or to sign up for a trip, visit clachurch.com/missions
2018 MISSIONS TRIPS
Arctic | Ministry
Poland | Youth
Dream Center LA | Youth
Tuktoyuktuk | Young Adults
India | Bus Ministry
Zambia | Boxes of Love
Poland | Young Adults
Dawson City | Men
Thailand | Women
Cuba | Recovery
Guatemala | Men
Guatemala | Women
January
March
March
April
May
May
July
August
September
October
October
November
9

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
LEARN + GROW
MARRIAGE SEMINAR: FUSION 2:1
WITH DR. DAVE CURRIE
Focusing on maximizing your marriage through the fusion
of two lives by inspiring authentic, God-centered marriages.
The desire is to see couples experience a passionate, satisfying
bond that they truly want to be a part of for life!
Wednesdays, Sept. 27 – Nov. 1 | 6:30-8 pm | Auditorium
$25/person (includes workbook)
Register online: clachurch.com/classes
ALPHA
Explore life, faith and meaning in a friendly, open and informal
environment through a series of interactive sessions. All
sessions start with food, because it’s a great way to connect,
relax and build friendships. The talks are designed to be
engaging and inspire conversation. But probably the most
important part of any Alpha: the chance to share thoughts
and ideas about the talk without being corrected or judged.
There’s no obligation to say anything; it’s an opportunity to
hear from others and contribute your own perspective.
Wednesdays, Sept. 27 – Nov. 29 | 6:30-8 pm | East hall | Free
Register online: clachurch.com/alpha
THRIVE MID-WEEK BIBLE STUDY
Pastor Bill Ashbee will be our study leader for these 7 weeks,
sharing “A Study of the Life of Elijah: Impacting Generations”.
Bring a snack and fellowship with others at 12 pm. We will have
coffee available. Worship, prayer and Bible study at 1 pm.
Tuesdays, Sept. 19 – Oct. 31 | 1-2 pm | West Chapel | Free
THRIVE SUNDAY NIGHT FELLOWSHIP
Gospel singing and testimonies with coffee and snacks.
• Sept. 24 – Traditional worship & testimony shared
• Oct. 29 – Traditional worship & testimony shared
• Nov. 26 – Carols by Candlelight Christmas event with
guests: Class Brass
Sundays, 6-7:30 pm | West Chapel | Coffee & Goodies served
THRIVE FRIENDLY FRIDAYS
Join us for a time of fellowship, encouragement and inspiration
through worship and speakers, and end with a hot
buffet meal.
Friday, Oct. 27 | 10:30 am| East Chapel | $11.50/person
Tickets available at Guest Services on Sundays, online at
clachurch.com/seniors or at the CLA offices during the week.
THRIVE FRIENDLY FRIDAY
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BANQUET
This year, we welcome guest musicians: Christine Schafrick
and Dr. Bobby Ogden. Ticket includes turkey dinner with all
the trimmings, wonderful door prizes, and beautiful ministry
in music.
Friday, Nov. 17 | 12 pm | East Hall | $21/person
DIVORCE CARE
Most people will tell you that separation and divorce are the
most painful and stressful experiences they’ve ever faced.
It’s a confusing time when you feel isolated and have lots of
questions about issues you’ve never faced before. Divorce
Care is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk
alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences.
Don’t go through separation or divorce alone.
Thursdays, Sept. 14 – Dec 7 | 7-9 pm | Room C109
$30 for workbook
Register online: clachurch.com/care
GRIEFSHARE
It may be hard for you to feel optimistic about the future
right now. If you’ve lost a spouse, child, family member, or
friend, you’ve probably found there are not many people
who understand the deep hurt you feel. This can be a confusing
time when you feel isolated and have many questions
about things you’ve never faced before. GriefShare is
a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside
you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. You
don’t have to go through the grieving process alone.
Thursdays, Sept. 14 – Dec. 7 | 7-9 pm | Boardroom (M-100)
Cost: $30 for workbook
Register online: clachurch.com/care
Free, offering taken
10

CLACHURCH.COM
SINGLE & PARENTING
If you’re a single parent, you’re probably tired, overwhelmed
and feeling a bit under-appreciated. The Single & Parenting
group is a place to learn tips and parenting wisdom that will
help you find rest, hope and encouragement.
Thursdays, Sept. 14 – Dec. 7| 7-9 pm | Volunteer Lounge (M-121)
Cost: $30 for workbook
Register online: clachurch.com/care
WHEN LOVE HURTS
What happens when you are hurt by the one you love?
When Love Hurts is a highly confidential weekly support
group for women who have or are currently in an abusive
in a relationship, whether it be physical, verbal, emotional,
spiritual or any other form of abuse.
Contact Nicole (nenns@clachurch.com) for more information.
STRONG MARRIAGE COURSE
Our Strong Marriage course (the updated Marriage Preparation
Seminar) is designed to help prepare for your future
together and build a strong foundation for your marriage.
The Strong Marriage course runs twice a year and allows
participants to learn alongside other couples about to embark
on this life journey. This course is required if you’re
getting married at CLA or by a CLA Pastor.
Thursdays, Oct. 12 – Nov. 2 | 7-9pm | East Chapel | $75/couple
Register online: clachurch.com/care
MONDAY NIGHT MEN
Open to all men ages 20 and up. There will be time for
worship, sharing, prayer and instruction from God’s Word
through video and group discussion. It’s a place to meet
other men, build friendships and grow spiritually together
to become a more Godly man. Casual, drop-in style, with no
homework and no obligatory commitment.
Mondays, Starting Sept. 25 | 7:30 pm | East Chapel | No cost
PURE DESIRE SUPPORT GROUP
Pure Desire is devoted to healing men and women who
have become addicted to sexual behaviours harmful to
their social, family, and spiritual well being. If you would like
to get connected with a group or need more information,
please email puredesire@clachurch.com
ESLC
English Studies for Life in Canada is for those who are
looking to learn English for the first time or improve their
knowledge of the English language while being a part of
a community. Anyone is welcome, including refugees, new
immigrants, Canadian citizens, temporary residents and visitors
to Canada. We offer multiple classes from beginner to
advanced levels to meet your English needs.
Tues. & Thurs. | Fall term starts Sept. 19 | 9:30 am – 12:15 pm
Cost: $130
Register online: clachurch.com/eslc
COMMUNITY BIBLE STUDY
At Community Bible Study, we delight in removing obstacles
to studying the Bible. It is every woman’s Bible study, available
to all regardless of background, education, church involvement
or economic status. At the heart of it all, we want to know God.
This Fall, we will launch with the book of Matthew.
Thursdays, Starting Sept. 21 | 9:30-11:30 am | East Chapel
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
A new support group this fall for those who are in a cancer
battle and for their support persons (close family, etc.).
Please contact Nicole (nenns@clachurch.com) if you are interested
in participating.
PRAYER GROUPS
Prayer is at the center of everything we do, from planning
meetings to preparing messages. There is also specific
times that are set aside specifically for groups to come together
to pray. Anyone is welcome to join in. For a list of
weekly prayer meetings, visit clachurch.com/prayer
CITYSERVE VOLUNTEER
OPPORTUNITIES
Cityserve’s focus this year is the local, inner-city schools.
Through connections made at Douglas Park Elementary
we have been invited to be a part of the Langley Secondary
School Breakfast Program and the H.D. Stafford Middle
School Lunch Program. We’re looking for volunteers to be a
part of this fun and rewarding opportunity to get out in the
community. For more information, please email
mmartens@clachurch.com
11

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
12

CLACHURCH.COM
HER
BY DEBBIE TONN, WOMEN’S PASTOR
Her life has a calling.
Her passion, her purpose and her destiny have taken
root in her heart and guide her through every moment.
She holds the hand of the one who created her and lives
her life knowing that He designed her for this very day.
She is: a friend, a wife, a mom, a grandmother, a sister.
She is a worshipper, a prayer warrior, a woman of undaunted
faith, extending the love He showed her to all
those she meets.
Her gifts are unique. Her influence is limitless. Her life
is a celebration.
This is her season, this is her moment, this is her time
to be all He created her to be. This is Her.
It’s a new chapter in women’s ministry at CLA. It’s new day, a new time and a
new season for the Holy Spirit to work in us and use us to be a light in our neighborhoods,
nation and world. Let this be the year we each choose to walk closer to
Him, grow deeper in His Word and stronger in our faith.
I am so excited to journey through this new season with incredible women
like yourself. My prayer is that every woman who walks through the doors of our
church will find a place to grow in God’s love, a place to connect with other women
and make lasting friendships.
Take a moment to look through some opportunities available for you to grow
in Him as you connect with Her.
13

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
MORNINGS WITH HER
Join us every Wednesday morning beginning September
13th, in East Hall at 9:15 for the best morning of your week!
This is a time to join us for a light breakfast and coffee followed
by a time of worship and the opportunity to choose
from a variety of classes to grow in your relationship with
God and flourish in this season of your life. Take a look at
the classes that will be offered this fall and find one that is
just right for you. Childcare is available.
ENTRUSTED with Elita Friesen
We were never meant to take this journey of faith alone.
God has entrusted us with the great and mighty gift of the
Gospel, something too life-giving to keep to ourselves. In
this 6-session study of 2 Timothy, Beth Moore will encourage
you to guard what God has entrusted to you, further
His kingdom by sharing Christ with others, and pour into
future generations just as Paul once mentored Timothy. Because
in this journey of joy and hardship, we need each other
to stay the course and live lives of faithfulness.
UNINVITED with Brenda Cheah
God wants us to live loved when we feel left out, lonely,
and less than. In this 6-session book and video study, Lysa
Terkeurst digs deep into God’s Word to help us explore the
roots of rejection and fully grasp what it looks like to live
loved. UnInvited is the beautiful reminder that you are destined
for a love that can never be diminished, shaken, or
taken—a love that does not reject or uninvite. With Jesus
you are always invited in.
ADVENT with Sara-Lee Hamre and Laurel Archer
This wildly popular Advent class is back by demand! Sara-
Lee Hamre and Laurel Archer will once again tag team as
teachers to help you create a gorgeous, Christ-centered
Advent calendar for your home. This particular calendar
weaves the story of Christ through from the Old Testament
to the New Testament. You will love pulling this out every
Christmas and sharing it with your family for years to come!
MOMS & TOTS
Are you a mom of toddlers and just want to connect with
other moms in an easy going environment where you can
bring a coffee and watch your little ones make friends. This
fall, join us every Wednesday morning for coffee and worship
in East Hall with everyone and then enjoy a this time to
meet in West Chapel and connect with other moms.
14

CLACHURCH.COM
PROPEL: PASSION with Debbie Tonn
Have you ever wondered what your passion is or what God
created you to do? The Passion DVD and workbook is set
up in a dynamic, 6-session format that introduces each topic,
including scripture-focused content from world renowned
Christian speaker and author Christine Caine. Listen and learn
as the humorous and engaging Propel team shares their wisdom
and experience with how to lead and live with passion
and purpose. In this series you will discover how to identify
your passion, how to create with passion, and how to lead
with purpose and passion in your sphere of influence.
PROPEL: GROWTH
with Cherilyn Tournier & Vicki Yeats
Begins Oct. 7 | 1st Sat. of every month | 10 am-12 pm | Cafe
We will tackle conversations about how to strengthen ourselves
and continue to grow in our leadership journey. The
six session series for the Saturday group is called “Growth”.
The series features Christine Caine, with panel discussions
from inspiring contributors, Lisa Harper, Bianca Juarez
Olthoff, Lisa Bevere, and Rosilyn Houston. More info can be
found at propelwomen.org. Workbooks will be available for
purchase in advance.
HER NIGHT OUT
Join us in the auditorium on the first Friday of every month
for an evening of worship with speakers that will encourage
and inspire you. Stay after the service, enjoy some snacks,
connect with old friends and make some new ones! Make
this night the highlight of your month with Her.
HER JOY
This year we are excited to introduce the CLA Christmas
Home Tour. Join us Saturday, December 9th as we tour ten
different beautifully decorated homes and see how families in
our church each have their own special Christmas decor and
traditions. In the evening we will come together in the main
sanctuary to celebrate the birth of our savior with an evening
of music followed by humorous and inspirational guest speaker
Krista Penner! More information will be coming, but mark
your calendars, invite your friends and save this special day!
All proceeds will benefit Wagner Hill Women’s Campus.
HER BEAUTY
Mark your calendar for this 2-day conference that is designed
to inspire, encourage and equip every woman on March 2-3,
2018. Join special guest speakers Patti Miller and Natasha
Lambert for a weekend that you will not soon forget! Registration
begins late November—watch for details.
15

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
CLA FEASTS
BY MIKE BIDELL, ASSOCIATE PASTOR
One of the hallmarks of the church throughout
history is breaking bread and eating together.
In fact, flip through your Bible and think about all of the
references to food, celebrations and meals together. The
Old Testament is full of feasting. The Church of the New
Testament was constantly in each other’s homes eating.
When you think about the wonder of Acts chapter 2 it is
easy to see so many elements that are essential for church
life: Spirit presence & power, believers gathered in unity and
prayer, the courageous sharing of the gospel and a harvest
of souls. It’s no wonder the Church burst into beautiful and
truly world-transforming life. Have you ever wondered how
the Spirit’s movement and gospel’s advance in the first
two stories of the chapter were stewarded and multiplied?
Around tables and in kitchens and living rooms in the everyday
lives of those first believers (Acts 2:42-47)! Could it be
that our prayers and longings for our church and surrounding
communities could find their answers in our homes too?
However, our size can make important things like community
and connectivity much more challenging. In fact, connecting
into life-giving community hardly every happens
accidentally—it requires your intentional choices. Earlier
this year we launched something to help make those choices
even easier. We have introduced CLA Feasts as a special
project for our whole church family for the next year
or more so that we are all invited to connect around tables
together. The potential is significant! Several CLA Feasts
have already happened, with many more to come. So many
people have already found new connection with others.
What if we got better at making some new choices:
opening our homes, inviting others, saying ‘yes’ and showing
up? What if we discovered who our neighbours within
our own church family are? What if we learned how to grow
together and reach the lost together? And what if one of the
keys to all this was eating together? We’d love to find out.
One of the great strengths of our church is its size. So
much more is possible because we’re all in this together!
For the whole story on CLA Feasts, visit clachurch.com/feasts
16

CLACHURCH.COM
“WHAT IF WE GOT BETTER AT MAKING SOME
NEW CHOICES: OPENING OUR HOMES,
INVITING OTHERS, SAYING ‘YES’
AND SHOWING UP?”
17

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
18

CLACHURCH.COM
BOXES OF LOVE
BY REBEKAH MAZZEI
As a church our mandate is to support
local and international missions.
Our vision is to reach beyond the walls of our church and make an impact on
our world in practical and spiritual ways. One of our key partners is Villages of Hope
Africa (VOH).
Once a year, the congregation of Christian Life Assembly and participating
churches fill shoeboxes with various items (school supplies, toys, soap, clothes,
etc.) for the children in the Villages of Hope located in Kitwe, Chongwe, Mongu and
other regions across Zambia. The boxes are also distributed to street children, AIDS
orphans and needy families in the rural areas.
On May 10, 2017, a team of 17 traveled as ambassadors with Christian Life Assembly
on a short-term mission. Our primary focus on the missions trip was to
deliver the Boxes of Love. I was one of the blessed. The team traveled for two days
to reach our destination: Zambia, Africa.
My experience was remarkable and far exceeded my own expectations. I was
witness to an organization that facilitates remarkable holistic care by providing
education, health care, food, housing, clothing and spiritual nurture in a supportive
and safe community to children in need, as well as a place to live for those who
have nowhere else to go. Their mission is to bring lasting hope to children at risk
so that they can embrace adulthood as independent and contributing members
of society. I can confidently say that VOH is raising-up the next generation of
equipped leaders and world changers for the beautiful country of Zambia while
leaving a legacy of hope.
I thought I would be subjected to poverty and people in absolute anguish because
of their social status. I thought I would find unsheltered, loveless and broken
children. Instead, I witnessed the exact opposite. I was witness to African people
reminding me over and over again that it is well, my God is sufficient enough for
me and that He is my joy. I was exposed to love and laughter every single day. The
questions were consistent for me: How could this be? How could people in such
desperate situations cause me to doubt my own joy? The answer: Jesus. In Africa,
the people are taking the good news of hope and living daily by this promise. They
are not fixated on social status, wealth or prestige. They don’t aim for superiority.
They truly understand that success is in three things: God, family and friendship.
Without them, only then is your human nature questioned.
19

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
“HOW COULD THIS BE? HOW COULD PEOPLE
IN SUCH DESPERATE SITUATIONS CAUSE ME
TO DOUBT MY OWN JOY?”
We drove through deep farmlands. I can remember
sitting on the bus en route to Chongwe and seeing young
children walk in the middle of a dirt road dressed in colorful
uniforms. Some children looked as young as 5 years old. In
Canada, it would be unheard of to have a five year old walk
to school alone. Just the sight of it caused my big-sister
protective nature to kick-in. Upon my arrival in Chongwe,
I met a young girl who said she would wake up at 4 am to
prepare for her 1.5 hour walk, alone, to the VOH School. The
privilege to be educated in Africa is a concept that is lost
on North Americans. African people believe that in order to
change generations, you must begin with education. They
sacrifice almost everything to pay for school fees and they
walk the distance just to sit in an overcrowded classroom.
To them sitting in a crowded, dusty classroom is no reason
to complain. It’s a promise from their heart that has come
alive. A response that would say, “this spot is reserved with
my name!”.
Our team distributed boxes at two locations. In Chongwe,
500 children received boxes and in Kitwe, 1015. The
most powerful moment was to hear the children roaring
with shouts of thanksgiving to God for the gift they received.
The heart of a child humbles me. It’s a constant reminder
that we must always have childlike faith, a faith that
is genuine and sincere.
In Kitwe, I met a housemother named Marianne. She was
the first housemother to greet our team upon arrival and as
soon as I touched her hand I knew she was a strong woman.
There was something inside my gut that told me she was
extremely wise. I gravitated to this lady any chance I got.
I sat in her home one afternoon as she hosted all the ladies
from our team and heard her testimony. I couldn’t help but cry.
20

CLACHURCH.COM
When we think of struggle in North America, we
don’t necessarily understand the struggle of a developing
country, especially if we’ve never been exposed
to it. This was my first time on a missions trip so the
impact was hard-pressed. Marianne’s testimony revealed
that she was rejected by her own mother as a
child, unloved by her father and married, only to have
her husband leave her and her only biological child die,
after which she was left completely alone. I sat with
my heart shattered. You would think that this woman
would have become a shell of a person. On the contrary,
she clung to Jesus! She found hope, peace and
restoration in Him.
Now Marianne is the longest-standing housemother
at the VOH Kitwe, shaping the lives of orphaned
children and giving them hope for a new tomorrow.
It’s remarkable and nothing short of a miracle. I think
about this woman all the time. When she hugs, it is
strong and there is healing in her touch. There is power
in her words because they speak life! This woman has
truly found new life in Christ and will leave a legacy for
every child that comes into her home. She left a strong
impact on me.
Matthew 25:40 reads, “Truly, I tell you, whatever
you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters
of mine, you did for me.” To speak life to those
once deemed the least of these is my commission. To
equip, encourage and then release these beautiful children
to go forth and spread a life lesson of giving to
future generations is a legacy that will continue to sow
and harvest. When you sow into the Kingdom, God will
do the rest supernaturally.
My beautiful Zambia, you taught me so many life
lessons. I’m grateful and I’ll be home again soon!
21

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
ALPHA
BY DALENA NGUYEN
I was a strong Atheist before Alpha, believing that there was
no God and no real purpose for anyone’s life here on Earth.
I was going through a difficult time in my life and had
been in counseling for about six months when I started to
have this really pressing question hover over me: “Is this all
there is to life?” I kept thinking, “After I finish all this counseling
work, will I feel better as a person, and then what?
Work hard, achieve personal life goals, and then eventually
die… how unsatisfying.” I felt like there was more to life than
this and I wanted to figure out if I was right.
In my search for an answer, I used a fancy tool called
Google, and came across CLA’s website and their Alpha
course page. I read into the course and to my surprise, their
premise was on the question, “is there more to life than
this?” How perfect!
Alpha was faith changing for me. In the beginning, I
was very skeptical and watched the videos with my arms
crossed, judging each video, analyzing each statement and
person who claimed to be a Christian. However, through the
weeks, I got more and more open-minded to a potential
God that existed, and even more excited for the next session
of Alpha.
Mark and Laura O’Reilly were the leaders of my table
and I thank God every day for placing them in my life.
They exuded a light and love that could not be described
through words. Whatever I was experiencing just by being
in their presence was enough for me to believe that there
is a God who loved them and that they were in love with. I
wanted to know more of this God.
Through the Alpha videos, I had the opportunity to
learn more about God and the Christian faith. Personally, I
did not feel judged nor forced to speak if I did not want to
(which I really appreciated), but felt accepted and was met
by open-minded people who were there to also find answers
of their own. It was a very insightful, food-FULL, and
positive experience. I encourage everyone to get curious
about who they could bring to the next Alpha! Who knows
whose life will get changed next?
22

CLACHURCH.COM
23

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
24

CLACHURCH.COM
GLOBAL LEADERSHIP
SUMMIT
BY DERRICK HAMRE, LEAD PASTOR
As we approach our third year of hosting the Global Leadership Summit (GLS)
here at CLA, we are reminded that we host this grand event because it provides an
opportunity for God to speak encouragement and strategy to our leaders. Every
person has influence. We have influence in our homes, neighbourhoods, schools,
work place and in our church. Influence is at the core of leadership.
The Leadership Development Institute at Power to Change Ministries has been
sending their leaders to the GLS for years. When asked about their experience and
why they continue to attend year after year, this is what they had to share:
“Everything rises and falls on Leadership” – John C. Maxwell. Global Leadership
Summit gives our leaders opportunities to improve the skills from
leading themselves, to leading others so that they can continue to improve.
Throughout the last few years, GLS has provided the platform and invited
world-class leaders to share their experiences. Many of our staff have had
the chance to break from a day to day routine and focus on the health of the
organization, their teams and themselves. Each GLS speaker brought new
ideas, perspective and inspirational stories to open the horizon on leadership
development. One of our leaders shared, “Being in a leadership role for
years and years, I asked myself, ‘what can I learn?’ and then I went to GLS
last year and it changed —it changed how I lead and how I serve people —
gaining skills from how to execute a strategy by Chris McChesney to Danielle
Strickland reminding us that leaders are called to use their influence to
bring peace to a desperate world. HUGE impact!”
The Global Leadership Summit reaches leaders in church, businesses, schools,
governments and the arts. The GLS helps leverage your influence to improve your
world. Your influence matters. It brings transformation to your surroundings. It
brings glory to God. Jesus talked about our influence when he said, “You are the
salt of the earth. You are the light of the world.”
25

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
26

CLACHURCH.COM
YOUNG ADULTS
BY JEREMY KING, YOUNG ADULTS PASTOR
“Nearly six in ten (59%) young people who grow up in Christian
churches end up walking away.” – The Barna Group
The purpose of CLA Young Adults is to engage young
adults in meaningful Christian community with relevant
Bible teaching and spiritual engagement in order to turn
the tide against this trend.
We’ve launched a new era of Young Adult Ministry at
CLA. It will be built on mentorship, small groups, leadership
development, opportunity for encounter with the Holy Spirit
and strong biblical teaching.
We will engage a broader community by leveraging
digital content in the social media space and strategic evangelism
through Alpha.
The different components of the ministry will be
stitched together by a weekly young adult gathering that
will be meeting on Thursday nights at CLA. We want to
create an environment where young adults can hear and
I believe a Christ-centred, unified community will become
an evangelistic, discipling community in time. It’s true
that a lot of youth leave the church after high school, but
its not because Christ and His word are irrelevant to young
adults living in Canada today. In my seven years of ministry
with CLA (first five at Maple Ridge campus), we’ve seen
so many young adults come to life-changing faith in Jesus.
They didn’t know Jesus, now they do. Now they’re children
of God. Now they’re living on mission themselves! I’m so
convinced of this: that the Jesus Christ of the Bible and the
Jesus Christ who is eternal, is relevant to any young adult of
any style and of any background and He is worthy of their
total surrender. These realities fill me with hope and a deep
conviction that we need to put increased resources and intentional
effort towards this group.
respond to the power of God’s word.
27

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
REVOLUTION
BY JENN MAMCHUR & PETER YOON, YOUTH PASTOR
n. | rev·o·lu·tion | re-və-lü-shən | A dramatic and wide-reaching
change in conditions, attitudes, or operation.
At every event and weekly gathering that our Student
Ministry throws for youth in middle school and high school,
this is our goal: to have a wide reach and to dramatically
change conditions and attitudes of how the world thinks
we should operate. The way we bring revolution is through
gathering weekly on Tuesday nights from 7-9 pm; bringing
students in Grades 6-12 together to respond in worship,
grow as God’s Word is preached and digest what they have
heard in small groups (hubs) under a leader who pours into
and mentors them. On Sunday mornings, we guide the transition
of preteens from Sunday School to Youth and Sunday
morning services by providing a weekly program, Rev 678.
We gather after worship in the auditorium, and students get
to hear messages that are broken down into simple points
that help them learn and grow in their faith.
We firmly believe that as a ministry we are family and
that every student, regardless of their journey with Christ,
belongs even before they look or believe like us. This generation
longs for inclusion, love and authenticity, and it is
our hope that students at Revolution feel these things from
We help students along their path through our 5 guiding
values:
Fun is our spirit – We believe that following Jesus is not a
system of rules or just saying ‘no’ to things, but about saying
‘yes’ to the best and fullest life.
Community is our privilege – We believe that ‘we’ is better
than ‘me’. No one is meant to do life alone. We value the gift
of community, and desire to push each other towards Jesus.
Growth is our pursuit – As we strive to live in response to
who Jesus is, we are committed to becoming more like Jesus.
Worship is our response – We believe that our personal relationship
with Jesus should affect every area of our lives,
and that as we live in response to who Jesus is, people will
see God in all that we do.
Mission is our calling – We believe that Jesus is the hope
of the world, and we are unashamed of that message. We
want to lift high the name of Jesus and make Him known in
and through our lives.
their leaders as we teach them and walk through life alongside
them. We want students to know that church is a place
for everyone, for people who mess up or fall—that church
is a place for the broken. As students learn this, we believe
that they will be changed by Jesus’ love as they begin their
As we head into the Fall, we are filled with excitement,
expectation, and energy for this upcoming school year!
With thankful hearts, we look forward to the reality that the
best is yet to come.
journey of living out their God breathed purpose.
28

CLACHURCH.COM
“WE BELIEVE THAT ‘WE’ IS BETTER THAN ‘ME’.
NO ONE IS MEANT TO DO LIFE ALONE.”
29

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
BY WENDY GERBRANDT, FIRST IMPRESSIONS COORDINATOR
Love one another. It’s a command
that Jesus told us several times.
CLA’s First Impressions team is made up of people who
practice this command as they serve our church on Sunday
mornings and other large gatherings. Greeters provide a
warm welcome to those entering services. Ushers help people
find seats and collect the offering. The Guest Services
team answers questions and helps people. But there is so
much more.
I love working with a team that does more than just
smile. I have watched greeters welcome many into services,
but there are moments when I see them stand aside with
someone, listen to their story and pray over them. I have sat
with ushers that have told me they love serving the same
section every Sunday; they love learning the names of those
that sit in their section and being intentional in getting to
know their stories. They celebrate the victories in their lives
and are there to pray when their weeks have been hard.
Ushers are using their God-given gifts to love, support and
encourage their brothers and sisters in Jesus, and share the
love of Jesus with those who don’t know Him yet. They are
joining God in transforming lives.
We have wonderful first responders that attend CLA.
After a draining week, they are still willing to respond if
there is a crisis on a Sunday morning. Unknown to many in
the church, our police officers, RCMP members and others
respond on Sundays to deal with people that are agitated
or causing a safety crisis. In the event of a medical emergency,
they provide greatly needed intervention until an
ambulance can arrive. We are so blessed at CLA to have
these men and women serving our church family.
At Guest Services, it can get chaotic on a busy Sunday.
I am so thankful for those who exercise their gifts of administration
and hospitality. After dealing with upset people,
lost children, medical crises and many registrations
for events, I always try to remember to tell the team how
grateful I am for their time and commitment. One of the
volunteers responded with, “Why are you thanking me?
I’m serving here because I love it and God has called me. I
love volunteering here.”
From our Guest Services team, to our team that calls
every person that fills out a connect card, to those who
volunteer at our Welcome to Church Party, our volunteers
work hard to show love and care to those who are new to
our church family. Joining God in transforming lives on a
Sunday and throughout the week. Growing in their gifts as
they serve their church family. I am thankful for each member
of our First Impressions team.
30

CLACHURCH.COM
“WHY ARE YOU THANKING ME?
I’M SERVING HERE BECAUSE I LOVE IT AND
GOD HAS CALLED ME.”
31

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
32

CLACHURCH.COM
CARE
BY NICOLE ENNS & KIM TRAN
It was late one night, 10 years ago when I was holding my baby
as she whimpered in my arms, drained of all energy from crying
for what felt like an hour.
I looked at the clock to see how long she had actually
cried for, but my eyes were too blurry to see because somewhere
in the rocking and swaying I had joined my daughter
in crying. I had tears of frustration, as any new mother
might have from lack of sleep. But I also had tears of anger
and deep sorrow as I realized that my daughter only had me
to comfort her and I was failing miserably. I have never felt
so alone than in that moment.
Today, 10 years later and I have a beautiful, happy and
God-loving daughter. I have been a single parent since
pregnancy and it has not been an easy journey, but I could
not have chosen a better person to adventure life together
with. We also know that we have been blessed with an
amazing support network of family and community. Without
this network of support and care, I don’t know if I would
have made it out of those dark and lonely moments.
As a church family each person reflects a different and
unique journey they are walking out each and every day.
Often times those seasons can be hard and lonely. It is the
deepest desire of Care Ministry to come alongside you in
whatever season you may find yourself, especially through
the darker days when extra support is needed. More often
that they never anticipated touching their lives. It may be
because of death, divorce or a breakdown in relationship,
financial hardship or many other reasons.
This fall we are particularly excited to be coming alongside
single parent families and offering a new support
group for parents who find themselves journeying parenting
alone. Single & Parenting is a 13-week support group
designed to offer you help and hope as you navigate this
often challenging responsibility alone.
We are also launching a cancer support group that will
serve to support both cancer patients and their families as
they navigate a very rigorous and often frightening journey.
Another unique support group we continue to provide
this fall is When Love Hurts, which offers a safe and confidential
place to support to women who have experienced
an abusive relationship, whether it be physical, verbal, emotional
or any other kind of abuse.
Whatever you are facing, whether you are in need of
prayer, counselling or support in any way, we would love for
you to reach out to us so that together we can hold one another
up, just as Aaron and Hur held up the arms of Moses
as the Israelites battled the Amalekites.
than not we are supporting people as they face life’s trials
33

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
CELEBRATION
80 YEARS OF LIFE
This year, Christian Life Assembly is celebrating 80 years
of LIFE and ministry, with 40 of those years on our current
property here in Langley. In the spring, we launched a celebration
year that began with a Sunday morning birthday
party, continued with a community party in the park and will
end with a special fall banquet. The banquet is the official
opening of our repurposed and revitalized conference hall,
kitchen and preschool. After many decades of use, this part
of our church was in need of an upgrade. Upon completion,
the conference hall will include upgraded technology and
equipment. There will be a new loading area and a separate
entrance to Sunbeam. A generator will be installed to help
the church run despite power outages. These changes will
help us with ministry facilitation and special events.
If each family could contribute $300 a year for the next
3 years, we could pay for the project! This is an amazing
opportunity to build towards the future through the great
foundation of the past.
COME CELEBRATE WITH US
On Thursday, November 23 we are celebrating the completion
of the renovation with a banquet in our new conference
hall. This fundraising banquet will include a dedication of
the repurposed space for God’s glory and use. We want you
to be a part of this. Save the date on your calendar. Ask God
how He might have you contribute financially. Help us keep
our 80-year legacy moving forward into a new era and generation.
We invite you to partner with God and CLA.
To donate to the project, email pledges@clachurch.com
34

CLACHURCH.COM
GIVING
SUNDAYS
Fill out a Giving Envelope in the seat pocket in front of you
to give with cash, credit card or cheque. You can also give
with debit or credit at the Guest Services desk during or
after the service.
ONLINE
You can give online by signing in or creating an account
through MyCLA, our online community.
Visit clachurch.com/mycla to get started.
CLA APP
Our mobile app allows you to give directly from your
TEXT
Text giving is a fast, convenient and safe way to give at CLA.
Simply text the word “GIVE” followed by the amount to
604-901-8360 (Example: “GIVE 100”). Follow the prompts
and continue to the sign-up link where you will enter your
credit or Visa debit card information (one-time only). Text
giving is never charged to your phone bill and your phone
number is safe with us.
RECURRING GIFTS
Recurring gifts can be deducted from your Credit Card or
bank account each month automatically. This way you can
commit to supporting the church simply and easily.
phone. The app is available on iPhone, iPad, Android, Windows
and Amazon. Go to clachurch.com/app to download
and get started.
For more information on our giving avenues, or to sign up
for online giving or recurring gifts, visit clachurch.com/give
CONTACT
CHRISTIAN LIFE ASSEMBLY
clachurch.com
604.530.7344
info@clachurch.com
CLA MAPLE RIDGE
11756 232 Street, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 6S7
604.467.5531
clamapleridge.com
CLA LANGLEY
21277 56 Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 1M3
604.530.7344
604.530.2477 (fax)
CLA SOOKE
6851 West Coast Road, Sooke BC V9Z 0V2
250.642.4822
clasooke.com
35

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
36

CLACHURCH.COM
37

CONNECTING POINTS | FALL 2017
clachurch.com | 604.530.7344
38