Offering for weeks 3 & 4 of April: This is the last Sunday to give to either of the Special Offerings for April!!
Resonate Global Mission: Formerly Christian Reformed World Missions and Christian Reformed Home Missions, we came together in 2017 as Resonate to walk alongside Christian Reformed churches as they join God’s mission in their own neighborhoods and around the world. As Jesus is taken up into heaven, he reserves his final words to send his disciples on their most important mission: being witnesses and living out the things he taught them. That’s why Resonate exists—to help you in living out that mission.
From now until April 30, your gift to Resonate’s Where Most Needed fund will be matched by a generous donor, dollar for dollar, up to $175,000! I urge you to take advantage of this opportunity and donate now, while your gift will go twice as far!
You are invited to donate to this worthy cause by the offering box in the lobby, click here to give through Tithley (Resonate Global Mission), or click here to give directly!!
* The Deacons now do two Special Offerings per month, Christian Reformed Campus Ministries Okanagan will run for the first two weeks, with Resonate Global Mission for weeks 3&4. You are invited to give to either or both offerings as they will both be available on tithley for the whole month of April! *
Youth: Join us on Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm for faith, devotion and fun!!! Youth is for children in grades 8-12 and they meet every Wednesday evening here at Willoughby. Here is the activities for the end of April & into May:
If you are interested in joining or want to know more about the program please contact Christian at Christian@willoughbychurch.com.
Thanks, Christian & Joanna
Preteens: Join us on Thursday evenings for faith, activities, bible study, games and a whole lot of fun!!! Preteens is for children in grades 4-7 and they meet on the first and third Thursday's of every month at 6:30pm. Here is the upcoming schedule for May:
If you are interested in joining or want to know more about the program please contact Christian at Christian@willoughbychurch.com.
Monday's Bible Study: The bible study group meets on Mondays at 7:30pm in the prayer room! Come join us on Monday, April 28th to read and reflect on Psalm 135, Salvation & History. All are welcome! For any questions, call or email Pat.
Garden Sharing Table 2025: If your vegetable or flower garden is producing more than you can use, why not share the abundance? Starting this Sunday, you're invited to bring your extras to our Garden Sharing Table, located in the church’s front lobby. Whether you have a handful of herbs or a bumper crop of rhubarb, all contributions are welcome. Let’s bless others with the bounty and enjoy the gifts of the season together. The table will be available every Sunday throughout the summer. Happy harvesting—and happy sharing!
2025 Nomination Process: Willoughby Church Council is once again engaging in a nomination process for selecting new persons to serve as Office Bearers beginning September 2025. For this process to be both meaningful and comprehensive, the council invites and encourages all members to prayerfully consider our congregation’s leadership needs and to suggest people to serve as these Office Bearers. Council will then approach and interview potential nominees and make recommendations. We encourage you to pray for God to lead us through this process of choosing new Office Bearers. Submit your suggestions by April 30, 2025. Hard copies of the nomination forms will be available on Sunday morning, or are available at the church anytime during office hours! Blessings, Council
Women's Connect: Our next Women’s Connect event hosted by Willoughby & Living Word is Saturday, May 3rd @ 10am. Join us for a "PreLoved Fashion Show" presented by The Upper Room Boutique. You can also, Redeem… Repurpose… Renew your gently used clothing & accessories at our clothing swap!! Limit of 10 pieces can be donated and please indicate size on the bag to assist with sorting. Clothes can be dropped off at the Church office up to Thursday May 1st. Hangers are appreciated. Don't forget to bring your shopping bags!! Tickets on sale, starting Sunday April 6th for $5.00! Hope to see you all there!! All left over clothes will be gratefully donated to Raphael House.
LEADERSHIP CONDUCT & POWER in the CHURCH: WHEN: Wednesday April 30, 2025. 7-9pm WHERE: Willoughby CRC. All around us, real situations of Church Leadership Sexual Misconduct & Abuse of Power continue to surface. WHAT does that mean for how churches respond? In this interactive workshop we will dig into a scenario that challenges all churches/leaders to examine the how, why & impact of our responses, as we learn more about both the use and misuse of power in our churches. WHO is this workshop for? All of council, staff, church leaders & interested congregants. Everyone is welcome. WHY? Participants will learn helpful information that supports a healthy understanding of leadership conduct, the use of power and responses in the church. It takes a WHOLE CHURCH to be a SAFE CHURCH. REGISTER: Willoughby Church office: tamara@willoughbychurch.com Presented by Classis BCSE & NW Safe Church Ministry – in partnership with Willoughby staff & council. Website: www.bcsafechurch.com Presenters: Faye Martin & Jiyoung Jung – Abuse Prevention & Response Coordinators Faye@bcsafechurch.com Jiyoung@bcsafechurch.com.
Blood Donor Clinic: This month we will be hosting our Blood Donor Clinic, on Tuesday, May 6th starting at 1pm. If you are able, please join in saving lives together by donating blood. Appointments are necessary and can be booked at blood.ca.
10th Walk in the Spirit of Reconciliation – Friday, May 30 – Sunday, June 1. This walk, in response to the TRC Canada, was created by a group of Christians in Langley to lament and walk in solidarity with First Nations People, remembering the harm done by the Residential School system. This year, we mark 10 years since the TRC with a series of walks and events designed to raise awareness and promote reconciliation. You can choose a self-guided walk, join a group walk, and/or participate in any or all events. All are welcome! See Walk in the Spirit for more information and to register.
Coffee Break: Bible Study, fellowship and refreshments for women of all ages, With Story Hour and nursery care for children, ages 0-5. Every Tuesday morning at Langley Immanuel Church (21713-50 Avenue, Langley) Doors open at 9:15 a.m. For more info please contact Elsa at CoffeeBreak@licrc.ca or Rose at coffeebreak@willoughbychurch.com.
Outstanding Young Pianist coming to Abbotsford! On Saturday, May 3rd, Songs Strings and Steps will present 19-year-old Kevin Chen performing Piano Concerto No. 1 by Frederick Chopin along with a symphony orchestra and the Abbotsford Youth Orchestra (AYO). In addition to the Chopin, the concert will also include some pieces by the AYO and feature Kevin playing “Réminiscences de Don Juan” by Franz Liszt. Don’t miss this special concert taking place on Saturday May 3rd at 6:30 pm at Central Heights Church in Abbotsford. Tickets available at calvindyck.com/concerts.
Come and join us at the Abbotsford Young at Heart Senior’s Expo and visit all the amazing exhibitors who are joining us. The Young at Heart Expo: Redefining Our Aging Years in Abbotsford at the Abbotsford Curling Club & Events Centre, 2555 McMillan Rd., Abbotsford, B.C. May 7th, 2025, from 10:00AM - 3:00PM. Our Young at Heart events have proven to be vital to our communities to allow our more senior community to get out, learn new things, discover new ventures and businesses, connect with the community, and have some fun with friends and family alike!
The GLORIA DEI CHORALE, guest choir, CANTABILE, and a string quartet, under the direction of Cathrie Yuen, are pleased to present their Spring concert, ‘Reflections of Peace’. Experience a night of reflective choral and instrumental music that seeks to uplift the soul and celebrate the power of peace. Saturday, May 10 at 7:00 pm at the New Westminster Christian Reformed Church, 8255 13th Ave, Burnaby, BC. Tickets: $25, 10 and under: Free. Available from members, at the door, www.eventbrite.ca. Contact Tina 604-588-6377 or Elaine at 604-271-0283 for more information.
Finding Hope in Hospitality: A Faith-Based Conversation on Welcoming the Stranger - On May 15, from 7:30–9:00 PM EST, we invite you to a cross-border virtual gathering. In a time when refugee resettlement and immigration spark complex emotions and conversations across North America, Thrive, the Centre for Public Dialogue, Exodus World Service, and World Renew’s Canadian Refugee Sponsorship and Resettlement Team invite you to a different kind of gathering—one rooted in hope, hospitality, and faith. Learn more and register today! network.crcna.org/topic/justice-inclusion/biblical-justice/refugees/finding-hope-hospitality-faith-based-conversation
40 Days of Prayer for Synod 2025 - 40 Days of Prayer are written prayers representing the diversity of CRC members that will guide us for the 40 days leading up to synod. Sign up to receive an email with the prayer for the day, or a PDF with each week’s prayers. The 40 Days of Prayer will begin next Sunday, May 4, and will conclude as Synod 2025 delegates gather on June 12. crcna.org/synod/prayer
Student Fund Committee Classis BCSE: Students intending to go into full time or part-time ordained ministry in the Christian Reformed Church may apply for financial support after their undergraduate studies are completed and they qualify for entry at Calvin Seminary or a comparable institution recognized by Classis. Applicants need to receive an endorsement of their home church. Contact petervanhuizen48@gmail.com for an application form and funding criteria. (Deadline May 31, 2024) The Student Fund exists to provide financial support to students who are pursuing studies leading to ordination as a minister or ministry associate (commissioned pastor) in the CRC. Because Classis BCSE values well-trained servants in ordained leadership positions in the church, Classis makes the commitment to underwrite a portion of basic tuition fees for students training for ordained ministry.
"Ministry to Seafarers" announces its 55th anniversary Port Tour Cruise planned June 28, 6-9 PM. Join us for a beautiful cruise, including light snacks and a narrated port tour. Cost is $100/person. Payment by e-transfer to finance@ministrytoseafarers.com, or by cheque to: Ministry to Seafarers Vancouver, 401 E Waterfront Rd, Vancouver, BC V6A 4G9. Contact Gary at crcvanportchaplain@gmail.com for more information.
Gallery 7 Theatre proudly presents The Play That Goes Wrong, A Farcical Comedy of Mishaps, by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer & Henry Shields.A hysterical mad-cap comedy about everything going wrong during the opening night performance of The Murder at Haversham Manor, produced by the well-intentioned members of the Cornley University Drama Society. Running May 9 & 10, 13 – 17, 20 – 24, 2025 @ 7:30 PM with Matinees on May 10, 17 & 24, 2025 @ 2:00 PM at the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium, 32315 South Fraser Way, Abbotsford. Tickets and info: www.gallery7theatre.com or call 604-504-5940. Group rates available!
Bethesda Lend a Hand Campaign: Bethesda's Lend a Hand campaign raises funds to provide practical and much-needed support to people with diverse abilities and their families in communities across BC. Please consider a gift of partnership with Bethesda. You have three different ways of donating: 1) mail your cheque to 2775 Emerson St, Abbotsford, V2T 4H8 2) go on-line to www.BethesdaBC.com and click on “Donate”, 3) or, if you live in the area, feel free to drop off your donation. Visit https://bethesdabc.com/lend-a-hand/ to learn more about the Lend a Hand campaign. If you have questions or are not receiving Bethesda newsletters by mail or email, please email life@BethesdaBC.com or phone us at 604-850-6604 (locally) or toll-free at 1-866-455-2231
Cascade Family Bible Camp – July 3-7 at Warm Beach Camp, Stanwood, WA: Join us for a summer of faith, fellowship, and fun! Whether you're single, a couple, a family, or a senior, this retreat offers a refreshing time of worship and connection in a beautiful setting. Enjoy inspiring speakers, engaging programs for kids (preschool through post-high), and a variety of activities—including swimming, mini golf, tennis, basketball, volleyball, bocce, a ropes course, rocket launching, and new this year – a ZipLine and Laser Tag! Choose to camp with your tent or RV, or opt for comfortable lodging with meals included. First-time attendee? Discounts are available! Register online: https://cascadefamilybiblecamp.org/registration-info For questions, contact rona718@hotmail.com or dean@lithocraft.com.
CASCADE CHRISTIAN COUNSELLING – Our nine counsellors have been very busy this year meeting the great demand of individuals, couples and families seeking counselling. We have two Cascade offices, one in Surrey and one in Abbotsford. We also have counsellors available in Chilliwack. All therapists offer online counselling options as well. Feel free to read through their bio’s on our website to gain a sense of which one might be the best fit for you. Cascade is committed to removing the financial barrier for Christ-like, professional support services. The sliding scale is from $90.00-$130.00. For more information or to book an appointment, go to www.cascadechristiancounselling.com or call our office at 604-585-1411.
Paul’s Missionary Journeys in Greece (October 13 - 24, 2025): Travel by motor coach (6 days) and cruise ship (4 days) to sites connected with Paul’s second and third missionary journeys, as well as visit other major sites of biblical, archaeological, and cultural interest. Jeff Weima, professor at Calvin Theological Seminary and leading Pauline scholar, hosts this inspirational tour. For more information, contact Dr. Weima at 616-328-3110 or weimje@calvinseminary.edu.
1Life April Newsletter: 1Life exists to curate a curriculum of resources that equips individuals and congregations to become increasingly whole-hearted, vibrant communities of Christian worship, discipline & mission. Click here for the April newsletter.
Do Justice - Justice Prayers: Do Justice is a conversation space for justice in the Christian Reformed Church, from the Office of Social Justice. Justice Prayers is a weekly post addressing justice issues from around the world. Click here to pray and read more!
CRC NEWS:
The Network: Walking, Listening, and Talking with Jesus What does it look like to share in life with Christ?
Servant Leadership: 32 Years of Faithful Ministry After 32 years of dedicated ministry with the Indigenous Christian Fellowship in Regina, Sask., Bert Adema is retiring.
Groundwork: Christian Civility: Defending Our Faith without Being Defensive - How do we disagree without being disagreeable, or handle conflicts when people slander or talk against us? Join Groundwork as we study 1 Peter 3:8-17 and Titus 3:1-11 to seek biblical wisdom for responding to and navigating a divisive culture in faithful and Christlike ways. Listen now at GroundworkOnline.com and subscribe to Groundwork's weekly emails for future episodes.
Thrive Faith Formation Tip - Abuse Awareness Sunday - Today is a day when the church acknowledges the sad reality of abuse in our world and in our communities. Abuse happens when one person treats another with cruelty and violence, hurting them physically, emotionally, and/or spiritually. Jesus came to put an end to such suffering and to the cruelty that causes it. Consider how the church can follow in Jesus’ footsteps. How can the church support people who are abused? How can the church help to put an end to abuse? If you’re looking for a helpful starting point, check out crcna.org/SafeChurch. Brought to you by Thrive: crcna.org/Thrive
Job Opportunities:
Summer Outreach Interns positions at Fleetwood CRC: We are planning to hire two Summer Outreach Interns to help implement our Summer Outreach Program at Fleetwood CRC. If you are looking for a summer job, consider applying for one of the two openings. These positions are 16-weeks in duration (starting May 5/25), provide an opportunity to both learn and serve, and are supervised and mentored by our church staff and Reaching Out Team volunteers. When serving in this position, you will: get to know our congregation and the people of Fleetwood Community; be spending time with children, youth, adults and seniors; carry out challenging tasks together with church staff and volunteers; be part of a team which will keep you accountable, encouraged and enabled to do the work; and have an opportunity for career and personal development.
To apply for a Summer Outreach Intern position, read the detailed job description here https://www.fleetwoodcrc.org/SummerJobs, then submit your cover letter and resume by email to Brian Woudstra at bmwoudst@telus.net. We plan to begin interviewing candidates in April and will accept applications until the positions are filled. Note: these positions are dependent upon funding from Canada Summer Jobs.
The Banner’s Counting On You! - Please support the award-winning journalistic ministry of the CRC by giving today. $500,000 is needed every year to keep The Banner going. The more funds raised in this annual drive, the less is drawn from ministry shares, releasing money to other agencies of the CRCNA. Please donate now online at: TheBanner.org/Give
The Banner: The March edition of the Banner is now available at the church. You can also access a copy online at The Banner. To support the Banner's ongoing journalistic ministry, consider donating. www.theBanner.org/Donate
Today Devotion Books: The Today booklets are available at the church.
Contact for Online Bulletin: If you have anything to add to the bulletin, please email info@willoughbychurch.com
Contact Council: If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to email the council at council@willoughbychurch.com